Pediatric Therapy Specialist

What is pediatric physical therapy?

Some physical therapists are specially trained to help younger patients to improve movement and function and to relieve pain. With specialized training physical therapists combine treatments including massage, manipulation, and exercise pain impairs function, when recovering from surgery or an injury, and when recovering from a disease or illness while keeping the developmental needs of the child in mind. A physical therapist will help a patient to recover from an injury or address a painful area and will then instruct the patient in home-care techniques for continued care.

What types of physical therapy are available?

There are a variety of treatments available at Advantage Physical Therapy including:

• Manual therapy- massage, mobilization, and manipulation performed by a physical therapist are frequently used types of manual therapy techniques. They can assist to improve range of motion and lessen or eliminate pain.
• Exercises- these are created to restore flexibility, strength, coordination, and endurance. They can include lifting weights, walking, stretching, and aerobics.
• Education about everyday changes- teaching a patient on how to change particular postures and exercises can assist to lessen pain and prevent further injury. These include items such as the use of crutches and making the home safer for an individual with muscle or similar weakness and balance problems.

What can a physical therapist do to help children?

Physical therapists can use their skills to reduce pain and help a young patient maintain his or her normal range of motion. The exercises will also work to improve overall flexibility and strength. Chronic conditions in children can also be helped through the care of a physical therapist. The physical therapists at the office will work patients to set up measurable goals and work with them throughout their recovery. After an injury or illness, young patients may need to relearn the basic physical aspects of accomplishing tasks and will also need to build up their strength following the incident. As a part of recovery, the physical therapist will be a crucial part of the health care team. For more information, contact Advantage Physical Therapy to set up a consultation.