Getting Kids Moving: Pediatric Physical Therapy

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Getting Kids Moving: Pediatric Physical Therapy

Emily Herndon • June 12, 2024

Getting Kids Moving: Pediatric Physical Therapy

Getting Kids Moving: Pediatric Physical Therapy

Physical therapists don't just help adults recover from injuries. Pediatric physical therapists are specially trained to help children of all ages overcome challenges and reach their full potential. Whether your child has a developmental delay, a sports injury, or a chronic condition, a PT can create a fun and effective program to get them moving.

How PT for Kids Works

Unlike a typical doctor's visit, pediatric PT sessions are all about play! Therapists use games, activities, and exercises tailored to your child's needs and interests. This might involve:

Building Strength and Coordination: PTs use fun exercises and activities like animal walks, obstacle courses, and games to help children improve their balance, agility, and muscle control. These skills can be essential for everything from playing on the playground to keeping up with friends.
Addressing Developmental Delays: Physical therapy can be a game-changer for children experiencing delays in reaching milestones like rolling over, crawling, or walking. Your PT will assess your child to identify the areas holding them back and create a fun program to help them develop the necessary skills to progress.
Recovering from Injuries: Did your little athlete take a tumble? PTs can help kids heal from sports injuries and surgeries. A PT will help your child restore strength and flexibility so they can safely get back to their favorite activities.
Managing Chronic Conditions: Children with conditions like cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy can benefit from physical therapy to help manage their symptoms and improve their overall function and well-being. A PT will assess your child to identify areas of strength and areas that need improvement. They will then develop a program to help your child maximize their strength, range of motion, coordination, and endurance. They'll educate you and your child on things you can work on at home. They can also help get your child any needed equipment like wheelchairs, braces, or walkers.

Benefits Beyond Movement

Physical therapy isn't just about physical health. While physical therapists play an important role in promoting physical activity and health in kids, PTs can also help children with:

Self-Confidence: As kids gain strength, coordination, and independence, their confidence soars. This can have a positive impact on all areas of their lives.
Pain Management: PTs can teach children techniques to manage pain and discomfort, improving their overall quality of life.
Socialization: Gross motor skills help children participate in play and games with peers, which help children develop social skills and build friendships.

If you think your child might benefit from physical therapy, talk to your pediatrician or call your PT. They can assess your child's needs and create a personalized plan to help them reach their goals!

References

The Scope of Pediatric Physical Therapy Practice in Health Promotion and Fitness for Youth With Disabilities. Pediatric Physical Therapy 27(1):p 2-15, Spring 2015. | DOI: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000000098 https://journals.lww.com/pedpt/Fulltext/2015/27010/The_Scope_of_Pediatric_Physical_Therapy_Practice.2.aspx
Aquatic Physical Therapy for Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial, Physical & Occupational Therapy In Pediatrics, 30:2, 111-124, DOI: 10.3109/01942630903543575
Physical Therapy Management of Congenital Muscular Torticollis: An Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guideline. Pediatric Physical Therapy 25(4):p 348-394, Winter 2013. | DOI: 10.1097/PEP.0b013e3182a778d2 https://journals.lww.com/pedpt/Fulltext/2013/25040/Physical_Therapy_Management_of_congenital_muscular.2.aspx
Pain Assessment and Management in Children With Neurologic Impairment: A Survey of Pediatric Physical Therapists. Pediatric Physical Therapy 22(3):p 330-335, Fall 2010. | DOI: 10.1097/PEP.0b013e3181ea8d7d https://journals.lww.com/pedpt/FullText/2010/22030/Pain_Assessment_and_Management_in_Children_With.18.aspx

Articles/Content:

5 Ways to increase physical activity in infants and toddlers https://www.choosept.com/health-tips/5-ways-increase-physical-activity-infants-toddlers
Activities to Promote Development in Children https://www.choosept.com/childrens-activities
Whole Body Exercises for Kids of all Abilities https://www.choosept.com/video/whole-body-exercises-kids-all-abilities

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Healthy Holidays

By Emily Herndon • December 15, 2024

The holiday season is a busy and exciting time of year but can also be stressful. Between shopping, parties, traveling, and visiting family, it's easy for your regular exercise routine to fall by the wayside. Research has shown that physical activity levels tend to decrease the most after holidays. That's why it's essential to prioritize your health this time of year. Regular exercise can help reduce holiday stress and keep you feeling your best. Here are some of the key benefits of maintaining your fitness routine: Stress Management The holidays bring a lot of added demands on your time and energy. Exercise is a proven way to manage stress and improve your mood. When you work out, your body releases endorphins that can lift your spirits and help you better cope with the season's pressures. Making time to be active, even just a little bit each day, can go a long way in keeping you calm and centered. Immune System Support Cold and flu season tends to ramp up during the winter months. Staying active can help support your immune system and reduce your risk of getting sick. Keeping up with your workouts makes you less susceptible to holiday illnesses that could derail your plans. Weight Management The holidays are full of rich, indulgent foods that can pack on extra pounds if you're not careful. Regular physical activity helps you maintain a healthy weight by burning calories and boosting your metabolism. It also gives you an outlet for all the extra energy you may have from eating more decadent foods. If you need help sticking to your exercise routine, consider talking to your physical therapist. They can create a customized fitness plan to help you stay on track, even with a busy holiday schedule. Physical therapists can teach you exercises you can do at home and provide tips for fitting activities into your day. Here are a few quick tips to help you stay active this holiday season: Schedule your workouts like any other important appointment, and don't cancel them. Find ways to be active with friends and family, like going for a walk after a meal. Keep home exercise equipment (like weights or a yoga mat) accessible and ready to use. Park further away from stores and buildings to get in extra steps. Don't let the hustle and bustle of the holidays derail your health and fitness goals. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can maintain your exercise routine and enjoy a happier, healthier holiday season.