Physical Therapy

Pediatric physical therapy focuses on promoting gross motor skill development in children through individually tailored activities that address strength, balance, coordination, range of motion, and ambulation. The overall goals of physical therapy are to assist the child to reach their maximum functional potential as independently as possible, to actively participate in their home, school and community settings, and to provide support, knowledge and education to their family and caregivers. Pediatric physical therapy can be beneficial for children with the following: developmental delays, such as rolling, crawling and walking, increased or decreased muscle tone, balance and coordination deficits, and those with specific diagnoses such as: torticollis, toe walking, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, and spina bifida. Pediatric physical therapy is often play-based, one on one with strong family involvement. Variety of methods may be used during a treatment session that may include: developmental activities, repetition of guided movements, taping, use of orthotics/vests, use of equipment such as standers and walkers, and electrical stimulation. By tailoring interventions to meet each child’s unique needs, physical therapy can help children expand their movement/mobility options, access their environment more easily, and offer support and knowledge to the family/caregivers.