What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is a type of treatment intervention aimed at improving a person’s ability to move their body and maximize its functions.

Why is Physical Therapy Prescribed?

Physical therapy services, including pediatric physical therapy, are used as a treatment in a large variety of situations. Our pediatric physical and occupational therapists are qualified to treat your child, no matter what your circumstances may be.

People often seek physical therapy when they have an impairment that keeps them from participating in an activity, such as experiencing pain when running. 

Physical Therapy Services can benefit people with:

• Acute injury, such as an ACL tear.
• Chronic disability, such as cerebral palsy.
• Neurological disorders, such as a stroke or Parkinson’s disease. These individuals can participate in neurological rehabilitation with a physical therapist to help improve their ability to transfer in and out of a chair or walk with decreased assistance. 
• Musculoskeletal dysfunction, such as low back pain caused after recovering from a fracture, to help improve range of motion and increase strength in the affected body part.
• Pediatric conditions, such as cerebral palsy or developmental delay, can be treated with physical therapy interventions aimed at improving functional strength and coordination.
• Sports-related injuries, such as a concussion.
• Women’s health issues, such as urinary incontinence.
• Cardiopulmonary conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) or cystic fibrosis, can also benefit from physical therapy to help facilitate aerobic conditioning and maximize endurance.

Who Are Physical Therapists? 

Physical therapists are movement specialists trained in examining muscle function, coordination, and balance systems to determine how these relate to a person’s ability to complete functional activities. 

Physical therapists are trained to treat a variety of body systems and impairments. They do this through physical therapy exercise regimes, individually tailored to the needs of each patient.

How is Pediatric Physical Therapy Different?

The goal of any physical therapy plan of care is to address a person’s impairments in order to maximize their mobility and activity level. Pediatric physical therapy is likewise designed to treat impairments but also to build on your child’s strengths, ensure healthy cognitive and physical development in infancy and childhood. 

Please don’t wait to benefit from our physical therapy services. We have several convenient pediatric physical therapy clinics near you.