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The Environment and Paediatric Physiotherapy

Original Editor - Alaa Kora Top Contributors - Kim Jackson, Alaa Kora and Vidya Acharya

Introduction

Over the past few years, we have begun to learn more about how human health is intrinsically linked with a healthy environment. Physical therapists as healthcare professionals are also particularly well-suited for addressing the physical and functional impacts of environmental factors on individuals[1].

Environmental and paediatric physiotherapy overlap, this page will look at how the world around them affects children developmentally and in their overall health[2].

Environmental factors range broadly from air and water quality to global warming, access to hazardous substances, as well as built environment [3]. These factors can threaten, in a very concrete way, children physical development and motor skills; interfere with their ability to grow up healthy ¬ implications for respiratory health are clearly implicated here and put further demands on the quality of life[4].

A nuanced understanding of the relationship between environmental exposures and paediatric health status is necessary to direct physiotherapy-based intervention/prevention strategies[5].

The purpose of this page is ultimately to educate and inform us all from a physiotherapy education perspective, that children's health could improve with the integration treatment outcomes toward child health environment sustainability.

Outdoor physical therapy sessions: A bridge towards sustainability and environmental physiotherapy

Outdoor physical therapy sessions take paediatric rehabilitation to a fresh and dynamic level. Through the use of nature, therapists make physical activities feel enjoyable and motivational by giving treatment that results with motor skills development overall well-being[6]. Outdoor activities with even more benefits for these children experiencing delays, sensory processing challenges or orthopedic conditions[7].

A Natural Playground activities placed children are in conditions of uneven surfaces, terrains and natural obstacles stimulating balance, coordination and problem solving. Outdoor play also boosts children's physical, social and emotional shock absorbers[8]. In addition to the therapeutic aspects of these activities, one can argue that outdoor physical therapy sessions fit with sustainability and environmental physiotherapy. Children are inspired to value the earth and feel connected to it; spending time in nature deepens that connection[9]. In addition to including sustainable practices in outdoor therapy as using recyclable materials or trying to reduce waste during the session[10].

Through promoting children to play outdoors, therapists can assist in the prevention of disease and chronic illness in later life but also contribute to reduce carbon emissions; hoping for a plausibly brighter future[11].

When planning and implementing outdoor therapy sessions, safety and environmental measures must be taken in consideration. It is need to be smart about the location, paying attention to weather in the active hours of the day, and child sun protection[12]. Further, therapists should be conscious of their ecological footprint and make efforts not to have a negative impact on the environment.[13]

Therapists have an opportunity to develop a new, creative and innovative treatment that meets children´s physical needs – but at the same time will also support their development and well-being in general by adding profound experience of nature; as well it enhances environmental sustainability.[14]

Green Practice during indoor sessions

Although incorporating sustainability into indoor paediatric physical therapy sessions may appear daunting at first, it is possible and very rewarding. Using green practices leads to a more constructive eco-friendly environment for both therapists and patients.[15]

Energy Efficiency is always one thing in the green practice that should be always put on top of everything.[16] Physical therapists can reduce their carbon footprint by decreasing energy use. This can be as simple as turning off lights and equipment when not in use, using energy-efficient lighting and appliances or optimizing the clinic's insulation.[17] Incorporating natural lighting whenever possible also helps with indoor air quality and reduces the need for artificial lights.[18]

Creating a good indoor environment is a necessity for children because of the effects of environmental pollutants are particularly pronounced.[19] Good air quality results of proper ventilation, efficient filtration and regular cleaning.[20] The usage of low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints, cleaning supplies and furniture that will then reduce the exposure to dangerous chemicals.[21]

The carbon footprint of physical therapy centers can be reduced by making more sustainable choices. When it comes to appliances, furniture and decorations, choosing recycled or sustainable materials supports environmental protection.[22] Additionally, environmentally friendly materials or measurable waste materials on paper towels and cleaning container can be used in the physical therapy centers.

Integrating environmental education into therapy sessions can help children and their families understand the importance of sustainability.[23] Clinicians can empower young patients to become environmental stewards by addressing topics such as recycling, energy conservation, and the benefits of outdoor play.

Waste reduction is another important aspect of green practices. Implementing policies within the hospital, reducing paper usage through electronic forms, and proper disposal of hazardous materials can help reduce hospital waste.[24]

Furthermore, plastic consumption limiting one-time use by encouraging patients and families to bring reusable water bottles can help create a more sustainable practice.[25]

By adopting green practices, paediatric physical therapists can create healthy and sustainable clinical environments and raise environmental awareness among young patients and their families.[25] Small changes can make a big difference, and by working together, the fitness community can contribute to a greener future.

Active Transportation for the Therapist, Caregivers, and the Child

Active transportation, such as walking, cycling, or using public transit, offers a number of benefits for individuals and the environment. For physical therapists working with paediatric patients, promoting active mobility can be a valuable component of holistic care.[26]

Walking or cycling to work can improve physical and psychological well-being, increasing job satisfaction and productivity.[27] In addition, it sets a positive example for patients and caregivers, demonstrating the importance of exercise.

Caregivers play a crucial role in children's lives, and promoting active transportation for them can have a significant impact on family health.[28] Walking or cycling to therapy appointments can be a fun and engaging activity for both caregivers and children, providing opportunities for physical activity and bonding. It can also help to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.[29]

Incorporating active transportation into paediatric therapy sessions can be a creative and effective way to promote physical activity and independence. For older children, walking or cycling to nearby parks or recreational areas can be incorporated into treatment plans. For younger children, incorporating balance bikes or tricycles into indoor therapy sessions can help to develop motor skills and balance while promoting active transportation concepts.[30][31]

Partnering with local transportation authorities to improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure could also be beneficial. Promoting active travel is not only beneficial for individual health, but also for the environment.[32] By reducing our dependence on automobiles, it can be helpful to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and create more livable communities. By incorporating active travel into children’s physical activity programs, physicians can help create a healthy, sustainable future for children and the planet.[33]

Paediatric Physical Therapy Telehealth Services

Telehealth has emerged as a valuable tool for providing paediatric exercise services, offering families increased access and convenience. Using technology, physical therapist can provide remote care, overcome geographic barriers, and overcome challenges related to travel, downtime and health concerns.[34][35]

One of the main advantages of telehealth is access to specialized paediatric and physical therapy. Children in rural or underserved areas may not have access to qualified medical professionals. Telehealth can connect these children with specialists, ensuring they receive quality care no matter their location. In addition, telehealth can reduce appointment wait times, allowing children to start treatment earlier and potentially improving outcomes.[35]

Telehealth sessions can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each child, including interactive activities and home exercises. Clinicians can provide guidance on equipment and adjustments to the home environment, and empower families to be actively involved in their child’s treatment. Telehealth also provides opportunities for family education and support, creating a collaborative approach to care.[36]

While telehealth offers many advantages, it is important to acknowledge its limitations. Some children benefit greatly from individualized therapy, especially those with complex needs or limited technology skills.[37] Effective telehealth requires reliable internet access and appropriate technology, which all families may not have access to. Additionally, relationship building and building trust can be more difficult in a virtual environment.[38]

To ensure the success of remote healthcare delivery, physicians must have strong clinical skills, effective communication skills, and the ability to adapt to real-world settings training and support ongoing awareness is needed to continuously identify telehealth best practices and address the unique challenges associated with this approach to care management[39]

By carefully considering the benefits and limitations of telehealth, paediatric physical therapists can effectively integrate this technology into their practice, expanding access to care and improving outcomes effective for children with different needs.

Conclusion

By integrating environmental considerations into paediatric exercise practice, physicians can positively impact children’s health and the planet. Outdoor therapy offers many developmental benefits for children as it connects them to nature. At the same time, the implementation of green practices in buildings contributes to a healthier environment for patients and staff. As healthcare professionals, physical therapists have a unique opportunity to promote sustainability, educate young patients on environmental policy, and lead by example in a healthier future it will be made available to everyone.

References

  1. ↑ Morera-Balaguer J, Martínez-González MC, Río-Medina S, Zamora-Conesa V, Leal-Clavel M, Botella-Rico JM, et al. The influence of the environment on the patient-centered therapeutic relationship in physical therapy: a qualitative study. Arch Public Health. 2023 May;81(1):92.
  2. ↑ World Health Organization. World Health Organization THE PAEDIATRIC ENVIRONMENTAL HISTORY : A tool for health care providers TRAINING FOR HEALTH CARE PROVIDERS THIRD EDITION Author ( s ): World Health Organization World Health Organization ( 2023 ) Stable URL : https://www.jstor.or [Internet]. 2023. Available from: https://www.jstor.org/stable/resrep55794
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  4. ↑ Venetsanou F, Kambas A. Environmental Factors Affecting Preschoolers’ Motor Development. Early Child Educ J. 2009 Nov 30;37.
  5. ↑ Miller AL. Environmental contaminants and child development: Developmentally-informed opportunities and recommendations for integrating and informing child environmental health science. New Dir Child Adolesc Dev. 2022 Mar;2022(181–182):173–93.
  6. ↑ Busk H, Ahler J, Bricca A, Mikal Holm P, Varning Poulsen D, Skou ST, et al. Exercise-based rehabilitation in and with nature: a scoping review mapping available interventions. Ann Med. 2023;55(2):2267083.
  7. ↑ TB S. The Benefit of Outdoor Activity for Child Development. Ann Physiother Occup Ther. 2023;5(4).
  8. ↑ Fjørtoft I. The Natural Environment as a Playground for Children: The Impact of Outdoor Play Activities in Pre-Primary School Children. Early Child Educ J. 2001;29(2):111–7.
  9. ↑ Christiana RW, Besenyi GM, Gustat J, Horton TH, Penbrooke TL, Schultz CL. A Scoping Review of the Health Benefits of Nature-Based Physical Activity. J Heal Eat Act living. 2021;1(3):154–72.
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  14. ↑ Jimenez MP, DeVille N V, Elliott EG, Schiff JE, Wilt GE, Hart JE, et al. Associations between Nature Exposure and Health: A Review of the Evidence. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2021 Apr;18(9).
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  27. ↑ Oja P, Mänttäri A, Heinonen A, Kukkonen-Harjula K, Laukkanen R, Pasanen M, et al. Physiological effects of walking and cycling to work. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2007 Jan 30;1:151–7.
  28. ↑ Riley E, Vsevolozhskaya O, Zaykin D, Shimshock S, Lyons J. Investigating the impact of caregiver transportation needs on Children’s response to behavioral and mental health treatment: A longitudinal analysis. J Transp Heal. 2021 Dec 1;23:101262.
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  30. ↑ Blommenstein B, van der Kamp J. Mastering balance: The use of balance bicycles promotes the development of independent cycling. Br J Dev Psychol. 2022 Jun;40(2):242–53.
  31. ↑ Neil-Sztramko SE, Caldwell H, Dobbins M. School-based physical activity programs for promoting physical activity and fitness in children and adolescents aged 6 to 18. Cochrane database Syst Rev. 2021 Sep;9(9):CD007651.
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  34. ↑ Haines KJ, Sawyer A, McKinnon C, Donovan A, Michael C, Cimoli C, et al. Barriers and enablers to telehealth use by physiotherapists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Physiotherapy. 2023 Mar;118:12–9.
  35. ↑ 35.0 35.1 Haleem A, Javaid M, Singh RP, Suman R. Telemedicine for healthcare: Capabilities, features, barriers, and applications. Sensors Int. 2021;2:100117.
  36. ↑ Kaur M, Eddy EZ, Tiwari D. Exploring Practice Patterns of Pediatric Telerehabilitation During COVID-19: A Survey Study. Telemed J e-health Off J Am Telemed Assoc. 2022 Oct;28(10):1505–16.
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