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Pediatric Physical Therapy
Pediatric physical therapy promotes independence, facilitates motor development and function, improves strength and enhances learning opportunities, in children with motor impairments. Children are referred for physical therapy when they demonstrate challenges with “age appropriate” gross motor skills, or if the child has sustained an injury that limits their previous level of mobility and function. Some of the benefits of pediatric physical therapy include improved gross motor development, increased endurance, improved balance, improved coordination, prevention of injuries, increased muscular strength and range of motion, improved walking pattern, improved self image, and improved self esteem.
Physical therapy treatment includes strengthening weak muscles, balance and coordination exercises, exercises to improve endurance, exercises to facilitate gross motor development, and exercises to improve gait patterns, all performed in a fun, engaging manner to ensure optimal participation and optimal results for each child. Family training is an important part of the treatment for each child to ensure that carryover exists in the child’s daily routine.
Although children may receive school-based therapy, outpatient pediatric physical therapy may be used as an adjunct. Outpatient therapy provides a less disruptive means for a child to be engaged in activities necessary to guarantee optimal performance at home and the community without missing key academic training.