In this episode, we explore rehabilitation strategies for children with spinal cord injury, featuring insights from two expert guests: Adrian Byak, an expert spinal specialist physiotherapist, and Angela Pulini, a parent whose teenage son has lived with a spinal injury since he was one. This episode offers a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience, providing valuable perspectives on how to incorporate rehabilitation into a child’s life.

Adrian discusses key rehabilitation principles, emphasising the importance of developing skills for independence and encouraging participation in everyday activities. He stresses the need to focus on improving a child's overall quality of life and the benefits of finding physical activities that are both enjoyable and sustainable.

Angela shares the various strategies her family employed to support her son’s health, development, and well-being over the growing years. While acknowledging the sacrifices involved, she highlights the profound positive impact of consistent physical activity, particularly in her son building mental toughness, self-esteem and a positive mindset.

Tune in for an insightful discussion on rehabilitation, the practical strategies for incorporating regular activity into daily life, and how setting realistic, meaningful goals — along with persistence and consistency — can set children up for success and a healthy future.

Meet our guests:

 Adrian Byak

Adrian is a highly skilled and respected physiotherapist with over 25 years of specialised experience in spinal cord injury care. His experience spans tertiary acute hospitals, a leading inpatient spinal rehabilitation unit, statewide community outreach and a specialist Assistive Technology and Seating Service. Adrian has been the Manager and Principal Therapist at Optimise Your Level Physiotherapy Practice for more than a decade.

Adrian has travelled internationally and nationally to stay at the forefront of advancements in spinal injury management, has presented at numerous national and international conferences and has published extensively in leading physiotherapy, medical, and spinal injury journals. Adrian primarily works with adults with spinal cord injury, but importantly has valuable experience working with paediatric cases, particularly around the time that children transition through adolescence and into adulthood.

Angela Pulini

Angela is a devoted mother to three teenage boys, one of whom sustained a C5 spinal cord injury at just one year old. Throughout her middle son's journey, Angela has been a tireless advocate and support, exploring and engaging in a wide range of exercise and rehabilitation approaches to foster his physical health and overall well-being. Beyond her role as a parent, Angela is involved in the disability sports community, serving as the President of NZ Powerchair Football, where she is passionate about promoting the sport and celebrating the achievements of its athletes.

The views expressed in this podcast are those of the speakers and do not replace professional advice.

Always consult your qualified healthcare professional/s to consider your unique needs and goals for individualised recommendations and rehabilitation programs.

Image by Angela Pulini provided for by SpineCare Foundation.