Physical therapy isn’t just for adults, but it’s for people of all ages. In fact, children can greatly benefit from physical therapy services. Physical Therapists (PTs) specialized in pediatric care are specially trained to help improve the daily lives and function of little tykes who are also patients suffering from a broad range of congenital conditions and injuries.
The role of PT is to work closely with the child, along with his or her family or close relatives to assist the little one in reaching their utmost potential to function and move independently. The professional will also assist in promoting the active participation of parents and guardians in the child’s school, home, and in the community.
How Can Pediatric Physical Therapy Help?
Patients who begin their journey to physical therapy for children will first encounter an evaluation on what needs to be done in future sessions. After which, the professional PT will provide care for any delay in motor skills in hopes of letting the child develop the strength, range of motion, and independence that the young one requires moving about freely and easily through their environment. PTs will start assessing the levels of flexibility, posture, sensory processing, coordination, skill, balance, gait, and strength of the patient. Furthermore, the expert will assess motor development and progress after a given period of time. The long-term objective of multiple pediatric physical therapy sessions includes the enhancement of gross motor skill development to the different parts of the body.
What are the Ailments That Can be Treated With Child Physical Therapy?
Pediatric physical therapy continues to evolve with time. Many PTs are now trained in helping young patients in hopes of treating the child’s motor skill issues and movement dysfunctions. Some of the ailments that pediatric PTs can help treat include the following: autism, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, down syndrome, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, cardiopulmonary disorders, certain types of cancer, traumatic brain injury, cystic fibrosis, arthrogryposis, and spina bifida.
What’s the Difference Between Regular Physical Therapy and Pediatric Physical Therapy?
Many children often don’t know and understand why they’re undergoing therapeutic care in the first place. Family involvement, play, and, perhaps most importantly, one-on-one care are essential for the development of the young one’s motor skills and function. Pediatric PTs are specially taught to create a fun and motivating environment for young patients. The professional will also assist in collaborative care with the parents of the patients to hasten and heighten the chances of a full recovery.
If you’re looking for special physical therapy care, then there are excellent options available for you. An ideal place to start your search is to head on to Physical Therapy Brooklyn.
