Pediatric physical therapy focuses on improving children’s daily functions and quality of life from birth to eighteen years old. By incorporating age-appropriate activities like games and toys, therapy can feel more like play and less like work. Pediatric physical therapists work closely with parents, caregivers, and other healthcare providers to ensure progress is made toward goals. If you notice any signs or symptoms of delay, it may be time to consider physical therapy for your child. Remember, children develop at different rates, and therapy can help them reach their milestones.
Signs/Symptoms
- Delayed Motor Development: A delay in expected motor milestones, such as crawling or standing, may indicate a motor development delay due to a physical impairment or neurological condition. Physical therapy can help develop necessary motor skills.
- Poor Balance and Coordination: Poor balance and coordination may indicate a motor development delay or a severe condition like cerebral palsy, and physical therapy can benefit the child.
- Pain or Discomfort: Physical discomfort during activity could be a sign of an underlying condition requiring physical therapy. A therapist can evaluate and develop a treatment plan to reduce pain and discomfort.
- Difficulty with Daily Activities: Difficulty with daily activities like dressing or feeding may be due to a physical impairment. Physical therapy can help develop motor skills for independent performance.
- Poor Posture: Poor posture can lead to a variety of health problems, including back pain, neck pain, and headaches. If your child has poor posture, physical therapy can help them develop proper alignment and strengthen their core muscles.
- Sports Injuries: Physical therapy can help your child recover faster from sports injuries and prevent future injuries. A therapist can develop a treatment plan involving exercises and stretches to improve strength and mobility.
Benefits of Pediatric Physical Therapy
Pediatric physical therapy provides a wide variety of benefits for children facing physical challenges or developmental delays including:
- Developing skills, they need to improve their ability to move, play, and participate in their daily activities
- Improve strength and flexibility to improve participation in activities such as crawling, climbing, standing, and participation in sports
- Better balance and coordination to improve running, walking, playing, and participation in sports
- Development of appropriate motor skills such as rolling, crawling, walking, running, and jumping
- Pain relief for conditions or injuries resulting in pain
- Greater confidence and self-esteem in their ability as they participate with their peers.
If you notice any signs of physical challenges or developmental delays in your child, pediatric physical therapy may be necessary. Physical therapy can improve their motor skills, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination, and reduce pain. These benefits can lead to greater confidence and self-esteem, allowing your child to participate in activities and interact with their peers. Don’t hesitate to consult a physical therapist if you suspect your child could benefit from their services.
