PHYSICAL THERAPY
Pediatric physical therapists (PTs) work with children and their families to assist each child in reaching their maximum potential to function independently and to promote active participation in home, school, and community environments. Physical therapists have expertise in movement, motor development, and body function (eg, strength and endurance). They apply clinical reasoning during examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and intervention for children, youth, and young adults. As primary health care providers, PTs also promote health and wellness as they implement a wide variety of supports in collaboration with families, communities, and other medical, educational, developmental, and rehabilitation specialists.*
*From the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy Fact Sheet
PTs can help kids with many physical challenges, including:
- Delays in development, such as walking without falling.
- Movement and mobility
- Not reaching developmentalmilestones for their age in motor and strength.
- Recovery from sports- and non-sports-related injuries.
- Posture, positioning, and lifting objects.
- Geneticdisorders, such as Down syndrome.
- Muscle weakness or imbalances.
- Nerve/muscle conditions, such as Cerebral Palsy.
- Cardiopulmonary endurance.
- Orthotics and prosthetics.
🌟Milestone Moment🌟 A few months ago, Nick stated that he would like to develop the strength and coordination required to complete the monkey bars independently.Although the monkey bars proved to be a challenge for Nick, he never gave up.
Nick completed 1 full repetition on the monkey bars today for the very first time. He even did it on two separate occasions! Nick completed the task without putting his feet down on the ground, slipping off of the bar, or requiring physical assistance.
We couldn’t be prouder of Nick for his dedication and perseverance. Great work, Nick. We can’t wait to see what goals you will achieve next!
