Pediatric Physical Therapy In Portland

Pediatric physical therapy is a branch of healthcare that focuses on helping children with physical impairments, disabilities, or developmental delays to reach their full potential. The goal of pediatric physical therapy is to help children achieve and maintain mobility, strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination through various exercises and activities.

Physical therapy for children is essential in helping them to overcome any physical limitations that may be hindering their growth and development. 

What do we treat with Pediatric Physical Therapy?

Children who benefit from pediatric physical therapy include those with:

• Musculoskeletal conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or musculoskeletal injuries.
• Developmental delays, such as those with delayed gross and fine motor skills or those with sensory processing disorders.
• Neuromuscular conditions, such as muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy.
• Cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or congenital heart defects.

How does Pediatric Physical Therapy work in Portland?

The approach to pediatric physical therapy is child-centered and focuses on the unique needs and abilities of each child. Physical therapists use play-based activities and games to engage children in therapy and make it a fun and enjoyable experience. This helps children to develop a positive attitude toward therapy and encourages them to participate fully.

The physical therapist will assess the child’s physical abilities and limitations, and develop a customized treatment plan based on their specific needs. The treatment plan will include exercises and activities to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination.

One common form of therapy used in pediatric physical therapy is aquatic therapy. Aquatic therapy takes advantage of the buoyancy and resistance properties of water to provide an environment that is safe and supportive for children to perform exercises and movements. The water also helps to reduce stress on joints, making it ideal for children with conditions such as cerebral palsy or musculoskeletal injuries.

Another type of therapy used in pediatric physical therapy is adaptive equipment therapy. Adaptive equipment therapy uses specialized equipment to help children with physical impairments to participate in activities and exercises. This equipment includes wheelchairs, walkers, and adaptive toys, and helps children to improve their mobility and independence.

Gross motor skills, such as crawling, walking, and jumping, are important areas of focus in pediatric physical therapy. Physical therapists work with children to improve their gross motor skills through exercises and activities that focus on balance, coordination, and strength.

Fine motor skills, such as hand-eye coordination and dexterity, are also important in pediatric physical therapy. Physical therapists use exercises and activities to help children improve their fine motor skills, such as through activities such as drawing, writing, and playing with toys.

Sensory integration therapy is another area of focus in pediatric physical therapy. Sensory integration therapy helps children with sensory processing disorders to improve their ability to process and respond to sensory information from the environment. Physical therapists use activities and exercises to help children with sensory integration, such as through activities such as playing with sensory toys, swinging, and jumping.

Physical therapy is also used to help children with cardiovascular and respiratory conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and congenital heart defects. Physical therapists work with children to improve their cardiovascular and respiratory function through exercises and activities that promote cardiovascular endurance and improve lung function.

In addition to physical therapy, pediatric physical therapists often work with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and occupational therapists, to provide comprehensive care for children with physical impairments and disabilities. This interdisciplinary approach helps to ensure that children receive the best possible care and achieve the best possible outcomes.

Get Started with Pediatric Therapy in Portland today!

Physical therapy is a critical component of care for children with physical impairments and disabilities. It helps children to overcome physical limitations, improve their mobility and independence, and reach their full potential. If your child is in need of physical therapy, contact us today!