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Clinic for Neonatology

Physiotherapy is an important part of the interdisciplinary care of premature and newborn babies in neonatology. Premature babies born before the 34th week of pregnancy or with a birth weight of less than 1,800 grams as well as all premature and newborn babies with special medical and/or therapeutic needs are supported and accompanied by paediatric physiotherapy together with their families.

Premature babies and newborns with special needs should be able to gain a variety of movement experiences and develop their own strategy for self-regulation. In this way, children learn to adapt to the conditions outside the womb. Physiotherapy in neonatology can also pursue other goals:

  • Instruction and support for parents regarding handling and positioning
  • Promotion of sensorimotor development
  • Prophylaxis and treatment of postural asymmetries or abnormalities
  • Support for respiratory function
  • Support with sucking and drinking difficulties

In addition to treating the child, supporting the parents and carers is an important part of the therapy. The aim is for parents to learn to understand their child's behaviour and reactions so that they can adapt their actions and dealings with their own child accordingly.

During the course of the treatment, the interdisciplinary team discusses and decides whether it is necessary to continue physiotherapy after discharge from neonatology. If necessary, outpatient paediatric physiotherapy close to home is planned together.

Together for a strong start in life

The aim of physiotherapy is to ensure the best possible start in life for every child and to offer young patients and their families comprehensive and needs-based support. Further information on paediatric physiotherapy at our therapy centre can be found here.

Your physiotherapists for premature babies and newborns

Portrait photo of Selina Güttinger

Selina Güttinger

Group Leader Physiotherapy Surgery, Head of Paediatric Physiotherapy, Therapy Centre

Spital Zollikerberg
Therapie-Zentrum
Trichtenhauserstrasse 20
8125 Zollikerberg

Portrait photo of Daniela Hotz Schönenberger

Daniela Hotz Schönenberger

Physiotherapist

Spital Zollikerberg
Therapie-Zentrum
Trichtenhauserstrasse 20
8125 Zollikerberg

Portrait photo of Marjolijn Dijkslag

Marjolijn Dijkslag

Physiotherapist

Spital Zollikerberg
Therapie-Zentrum
Trichtenhauserstrasse 20
8125 Zollikerberg