PEDIATRIC PHYSICAL

THERAPY

What is Physical Therapy For Kids?

Pediatric physical therapy is a specialized area of habilitative treatment that focuses on improving function in young children and babies. Physical therapy (PT) at Ability Innovations provided by a physical therapist who specializes in pediatrics. At AI play is implemented into Physical Therapy sessions to support the acquisition of skills in child development. Through this approach the child guides the activities while the therapist implements physical therapy strategies.

Pediatric Physical Therapy is process of helping children ages 0-21 improve their physical abilities and reach the right milestones to keep up with their peers. At Ability Innovations we achieve this through play!

Signs Your Child Might Need Physical Therapy

  • Limited Mobility- Does your child have issues walking, crawling, or getting around?

  • Poor Posture- Is your child consistently sitting hunched over or in uncomfortable positions?

  • Strange Movement Patterns- How does your child get from point A to point B? Does your child toe walk more than 30% of the time?

  • Slow Motor Development- Is your child behind their peers when it comes to writing, picking up toys, or keeping their head up?

  • Chronic Pain- Does your child experience consistent pain in in their limbs, joints, hands, or feet?

  • Weakness In Muscles Or Joints- Does your child struggle to move, run, jump, or complete daily functions due to weak muscles or joints?

  • Balance- Does your child struggle walking in a straight path? Does your child fall multiple times throughout the day?

Common Cases That Require Pediatric Physical Therapy

  • Autism- If your child is on the Autism Spectrum they may have certain motor delays that may prevent them from walking with both feet on the ground (toe walking) or gripping toys, utensils, or writing tools.

  • Down Syndrome- Down Syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition in the United States. Pediatric Physical Therapy can help children with Down Syndrome gain the strength need to move properly, grip properly, and interact with the world in a safe way.

  • Cerebral Palsy- Pediatric Physical Therapy can help children with cerebral palsy by helping them develop ways to work on movement and muscle strength.

  • Spina Bifida- Can help improve movement and muscle strength. As a child, Pediatric Physical Therapy can help them live as independently as possible.

  • Dyspraxia- Pediatric Physical Therapy can help your child work on their motor skills as well as hand-eye coordination in a fun and meaningful way.

  • Muscular Dystrophy- Improving muscle strength is key to treating children with Muscular Dystrophy. Ability Innovations can do this in a playful and fun way.

  • Torticollis- Occurs when a baby’s neck muscles cause their head to turn or rotate to one side. Pediatric Physical Therapy can help improve the ability of the child to move their head from right to left.

The Play Based Approach

At Ability Innovations we believe that children learn best through play. Our talented pediatric physical therapists are trained to improvise and adapt to the needs of each child they have. They help every kid receive progress through play. If you feel like pediatric therapy is right for your child, then schedule a free consultation today!