What kinds of treatment will my child get in physical therapy?

Sara Kester, DPT

Every child is different and treatment will be individualized for him or her! You SHOULD expect treatments to look like play! Teaching a child how to strengthen similar to a gym will be far less beneficial than taking a game they love and adapting it to the needs of the child. Pediatric physical therapists often use toys, balls, and imagination to work on strength, coordination, balance, range of motion, and other specific needs of the child.

In a typical treatment session, a physical therapist may:

·       speak with the parent or guardian regarding any new changes or difficulties

·       often measure flexibility and strength through movement

·       analyze the child’s walk, run, and/or jump

·       strengthening in different positions

·       work on balance

·       work towards family goals

·       discuss with parent or guardian about the session, home exercises

·       have the guardian demonstrate home exercises so caregivers feel comfortable at home