Why Kids Need Physiotherapy Too: How Early Treatment Helps Children Grow Stronger, Move Better, and Stay Injury-Free

Introduction: Helping Kids Stay Active, Healthy & Pain-Free

At Backs in Action in East Vancouver, we often see adults come in after years of ignoring pain or developing long-term movement issues—but did you know that many of these challenges start during childhood and adolescence?

Whether your child is recovering from a sports injury, struggling with poor posture from heavy backpacks and screen time or experiencing growing pains, physiotherapy can play a crucial role in their development, confidence, and long-term health.

We’re excited to expand our services to better support kids, pre-teens, teens, and student athletes from local schools in Renfrew-Collingwood, East Vancouver, Burnaby, and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Why Kids and Teens Benefit from Physiotherapy

Children’s bodies grow rapidly, which means early intervention can make a big difference. Pediatric physiotherapy helps with:

  • Sports injuries (e.g., sprained ankles, shin splints, knee pain)
  • Posture issues caused by screen time & heavy backpacks
  • Growing pains (common in school-aged kids)
  • Scoliosis or spinal concerns
  • Recovery from fractures or surgeries
  • Flat feet or gait concerns (walking/running patterns)
  • Coordination, balance, or movement delays
  • Prevention of repetitive strain injuries in student athletes

For Student Athletes: Preventing Injuries Before They Start

With a high school nearby, we understand how competitive teen sports can be. Whether your child plays basketball, volleyball, soccer, track and field, dance, or martial arts—overuse injuries are becoming increasingly common in young athletes.

Physiotherapy can:

  • Improve strength, flexibility, and technique
  • Correct imbalances that lead to knee, hip, or ankle issues
  • Support safe return-to-play after an injury
  • Reduce the risk of reinjury
  • Boost confidence and athletic performance

For Younger Kids: Posture & Device-Related Pain Are On the Rise

The increase in screen time and remote learning has led to:

  • Forward head posture
  • Rounded shoulders
  • Neck & back pain
  • Decreased core strength

Our physiotherapists assess your child’s movement and posture in a fun, encouraging way and create play-based exercises they’ll actually enjoy doing.

What About Growing Pains?

Growing pains—especially in the knees, thighs, and calves—are common but can be painful and worrisome for both kids and parents. Physiotherapy helps determine if it’s simply growth-related or linked to alignment or muscle imbalances that need attention.

What to Expect in a Pediatric Physio Session at Backs in Action

  1. Movement and strength assessment (done in a kid-friendly, welcoming environment)
  2. Diagnosis explained clearly to parents and kids
  3. Personalized treatment plan, including hands-on therapy (when needed)
  4. Fun, age-appropriate exercises using balls, resistance bands, and games
  5. Posture and injury prevention tips for home, school, or sports
  6. Progress monitoring with ongoing support

Top 5 Signs Your Child Might Need Physiotherapy

  1. They frequently complain about pain after activity or sitting too long
  2. They walk or run unevenly, trip often, or have flat feet
  3. They’re recovering from a sprain, fracture, or sports injury
  4. They slouch, lean to one side, or carry a heavy backpack with discomfort
  5. You notice difficulty keeping up with peers in sports or play

If you recognize one or more of these, a physiotherapy assessment can give you peace of mind — and your child a head start toward better movement and confidence.

Does ICBC Cover Teen Physiotherapy After an Accident?

Yes!

If your teenager (under 19) is involved in a car accident — as a passenger, cyclist, or pedestrian — ICBC covers physiotherapy treatments, even if they’re not at fault.

At Backs in Action, we handle the paperwork directly with ICBC so parents can focus on their child’s recovery. Early physiotherapy care helps prevent long-term pain and promotes faster healing.

Learn more on our ICBC coverage page or contact our front desk for details.

Why Parents Trust Backs in Action for Kids’ Physiotherapy

  • Multidisciplinary care under one roof — Physio, Chiro, Massage, Acupuncture
  • Centrally located in East Vancouver, easily accessible by transit
  • Free Parking
  • Billable to Extended Health Benefits
  • Family-friendly approach—our practitioners take time to explain everything
  • Customized care for children & teens, not a one-size-fits-all approach

Is your child’s movement, posture, or comfort holding them back from doing what they love?

Use this quick checklist to find out if physiotherapy could help.

My Child…

  • Complains of pain after sports, play, or school activities
  • Has poor posture or slouches often (especially during screen time)
  • Carries a heavy backpack and feels shoulder, neck, or back discomfort
  • Walks or runs unevenly, trips often, or seems off-balance
  • Is recovering from a sprain, fracture, or sports injury
  • Has flat feet or awkward walking/running patterns
  • Struggles with flexibility or stiffness
  • Complains of growing pains in legs or knees
  • Seems weaker or slower than peers in physical activities
  • Recently had a car accident (ICBC may cover care for minors)

Book Your Child’s Assessment Today

Whether your child is recovering from a sports injury, dealing with posture pain, or you’re simply concerned about how they move, our team at Backs in Action Wellness Centre is here to help them move confidently, grow stronger, and stay active.

Located minutes from local elementary and high schools in Vancouver and Burnaby

Book online at www.backsinaction.ca

Or call us today to schedule your child’s first physiotherapy session

Unsure what service to consider or if physio can help? Call us at 604-876-9977 to set up a complimentary consultation with one of our therapists

Let’s help your child move better now—so they can grow healthier tomorrow.

What Our Clients Are Saying

“Kinesiologist Rachel was wonderful in helping my son to recover after being hit by a vehicle at his school crosswalk. We noticed he made big strides in his overall mobility, flexibility and core strength. She’s wonderful with kids and my son responded well to her. Thanks again!”
– Naomi Y.