Physical Therapy Services
The role of a Physical Therapist is to maximize function and minimize disability for all people of all ages. We accomplish this by being experts in the Human Movement System. We utilize our knowledge of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and other supporting systems to assess for problems in movement and create a plan to help your child move better. Movement is a key to optimal living and quality of life for all people and supports your child's ability to participate, fully, in all social and community activities whether this be play dates, school activities, or organized sports. Physical therapy addresses weakness, malalignment, muscle tightness, poor balance and coordination, developmental delay, gait (walking) deficits, spasticity, and lack of age-appropriate functional skills for daily living and participation. Therapeutic equipment, such as treadmills, therapy balls, weights, bikes, trikes, trampolines, and specialized swings are used during treatment to make each session fun and relevant to your child's age. In addition, treatments may include other modalities such as, neuromuscular (electrical) stimulation, therapeutic taping, serial casting, Theratogs©, or aquatic therapy to achieve your child's and family's goals.
WHAT KIND OF DIAGNOSES DO PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL THERAPISTS WORK WITH?
- Cerebral Palsy
- Autism
- Torticollis
- Developmental Delay
- Developmental Coordination Disorder
- Spina Bifida
- Genetic Conditions (e.g., Down Syndrome, etc.)
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (or other autoimmune disorders)
- Post-Operative Diagnoses (e.g. broken bones, joint surgery, burns, heart surgery, etc.)
- Orthopedic Injuries (e.g. sports or accident related)
- Promoting independence
- Increasing participation
- Facilitating motor development and function
- Improving strength and endurance
- Enhancing learning opportunities
- Enhancing social opportunities
- Easing challenges with daily living
- Parents and families have the primary role in their child’s development.
- The pediatric PT collaborates with the family to promote development and implement an individualized intervention program for the child.
- Families are supported through coordination of services, advocacy, resources, and assistance to enhance the development of their child.
