Pediatric rehabilitation

Abstract

There are several key points for performing pediatric rehabilitation such as favorable effect of brain plasticity, adverse effect of vulnerability in young brain, effect of growth and development, and necessity of family support. In the execution of pediatric rehabilitation, it is most important for a patient to be evaluated accurately. The rehabilitation program should be made based on a detailed evaluation. Rehabilitation should be carried out in a program with such elements as sufficient whole body management, functional training, regional cooperation, support for returning to school, and family support. A team approach is very effective because staff members can provide support from wide-ranging aspects. The main disabilities for pediatric rehabilitation are of congenital or perinatal etiology such as cerebral palsy or bone disorders. At the same time, though the incidence rate is somewhat low, rehabilitation for acquired brain injury such as traumatic brain injury, acute encephalopathy, hypoxic encephalopathy, and cerebrovascular disorders is also important.