Reviewed and contributions made by Carrie Becher, OTRL
For all physical therapists, the goal is to help their patients improve their musculoskeletal health. Whether it is building strength, improving balance, increasing flexibility or another focus, physical therapists work with patients to improve how they move about in their daily life.
The same is true for pediatric physical therapists. Pediatric physical therapists often work in tandem with pediatric occupational therapists to help even the youngest patients learn how to use their bodies and make everyday activities easier.
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Understanding Pediatric Therapy
Pediatric therapy looks a bit different from “regular” physical therapy. For example, an adult may come to treatment with acute knee pain. In this situation, the therapist would have the patient complete a series of modalities or exercises that specifically targets the knee and the areas around it to strengthen, increase mobility and relieve pain.
Pediatric therapy will look much different from an adult session. Instead, a pediatric session uses a play-based approach to address areas of concern.
“The children we treat as pediatric specialists tend to have a comorbidity that limits their ability to stay on task, follow directions or actively participate,” says Carrie Becher, OTRL. “We must be very creative in introducing activities that not only target the problem area but that also keep the child engaged and are age appropriate.”
Unlike adult physical therapy sessions, which may last for a limited number of sessions. A large percentage of children that receive therapy services do not rehabilitate in a short episode of care. Instead, these patients receive long-term treatment over the course of their childhood.
What happens during a Pediatric PT/OT visit?
Most therapy sessions will appear as though the child is playing. In order for the child to earn the benefits of therapy, they need to actively participate and be engaged in their treatment. Each activity is chosen specifically for that child in regard to their therapeutic needs. Our therapists assess each one of their patients to determine what kind of care plan is appropriate for them.
Most children enjoy therapy sessions and look forward to coming. At ATI, our therapy facility has swings, a zipline, monkey bars, bikes, skates, balance beams, crash mats, floor mats, balls, play kitchen, music toys and fine motor activities. All of these tools help keep our littlest patients excited and engaged in their treatment.
What reasons would my child need to visit a Pediatric PT/OT?
Rather than seeking out therapy because of an injury like many adults, young children may seek out treatment for other reasons. Parents typically seek care because their child is struggling or failing to meet developmental milestones. Such milestone delays may include:
- Motor: Rolling, sitting, crawling, etc.
- Sensory: Visually tracking objects, a regular sleep schedule, increased sensitivity to texture, etc.
- Communication: Babbling, stuttering, hesitancy to speak, etc.
- Feeding: Holding/using utensils, drinking from an open cup, ability to chew a range of food textures, etc.
If you feel that your child may need to seek pediatric physical therapy, it is important to consult your child’s primary doctor. They will work with you to determine the appropriate course of action.
If your doctor encourages you to try therapy, seek out a pediatric therapist first. “I would highly recommend taking a child to pediatric therapist versus a therapist who’s daily patient care is with the adult population,” Becher says. She then wants to assure parents that pediatric occupational and physical therapists have extensive training treating children. Coupled with their experience, these therapists are prepared to develop a proper care plan and offer treatment that is right for your child.
Scheduling an Appointment for Your Child
As previously mentioned, if you feel that pediatric physical or occupational therapy is right for your child, it is important to consult your child’s physician first. If you have already been encouraged to seek out physical therapy, ATI offers pediatric care at a select number of clinics throughout the country, and our therapists are prepared to help your child understand their body and make their everyday life easier.