Paediatrics: Gross Motor Delay

What to Expect When You Visit Our Physiotherapist

When you bring your child to us for gross motor delay, our physiotherapist will assess age-appropriate skills such as tummy time, rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, walking, balance, coordination, strength, and movement confidence. Treatment is play-based and may include strengthening activities, balance games, postural control training, parent education, and home activities that fit into daily routines. Our goal is to help your child build confidence and progress toward their motor milestones in a supportive, family-friendly way.

Time to favourable outcome

3–12 months typical

Start Median: 6 months Favourable outcome
100% 75% 50% 25% 0%
0mo3mo6mo9mo12mo

Results Comparison

Physio Recovery Rate

With TCM 60% – 85%
No Treatment / Spontaneous 30% – 60%
How Does the Treatment Work?
Manual Therapy Supports positioning, comfort and movement preparation where needed.
Exercise Rehab Play-based strengthening builds motor skills and confidence.

Sustained Relief (%)

3 / 6 / 12 months
3 months 55%
6 months 70%
12 months 80%

Factors Influencing Recovery Speed

Early Intervention

• Earlier support can build age-appropriate movement habits. • Parent-led daily practice makes therapy more effective.

Play-Based Strengthening

• Tummy time, balance games and movement play support milestones. • Consistent routines help children practise without pressure.

Limited Floor Time

• Too little active play can reduce movement confidence. • Excessive equipment use may limit natural practice opportunities.

Underlying Development Factors

• Low tone, prematurity or neurological conditions may slow progress. • Missed appointments and inconsistent home practice also reduce gains.

How do we estimate outcomes?

We combine insights from published research, our own experience and that of our peers, along with typical treatment timelines and conservative modelling assumptions, to map out common trajectories. The ranges presented reflect our experience only.

Important Disclaimer

This tool is intended for visualisation and general educational purposes only, to help clients gain a broad understanding of some common conditions managed by our practitioners. It is based on practitioner experience and selected published research. It does not account for individual circumstances, including your specific condition, medical history, medications, or other personal factors. Health conditions are complex, and outcomes can vary significantly between individuals. Our treatments are not a substitute for medical care provided by your healthcare professional. You should always follow the advice and treatment plan recommended by your medical practitioner, and consult them directly for guidance specific to your situation.