Helping them understand their bodies

The physical therapy section at St. Andrew’s Children's Clinic is cushioned with mats in rainbow colors, on which about two handfuls of physical therapists stretch and bend children’s extremities. Those often are children with not only physical, but also mental disabilities. Some can’t walk, others can’t even sit upright by themselves.

But throughout the therapy, their movements become more and more fluent, their facial expressions become more relaxed and some let go of the tension in their bodies with a loud giggle or scream.

The treatment often won’t bring them back onto their feet. But the controlled movements and close body contact with the doctors help them find a new inner balance — no matter whether they will one day be able to walk.