MRS. GILLISPIE'S CLASS

What Does a Physical Therapist Do?

Physical therapists typically evaluate a patient to figure out the most effective way to improve mobility and relieve any pain. During the first visit, the physical therapist will likely do the following things:

• observe and analyze the way your child moves and plays
• observe and modify how your child walks (a child's gait)
• identify the source of your child's pain and provide pain relief
• provide instructions for home exercise programs
• identify potential posture and alignment problems
• consult with other medical professionals and school personnel
• recommend a safe time to return to sports

Once the physical therapist has identified the problem, he or she will create a treatment plan. That plan might include:

• strength training
• stretching exercises to improve muscle flexibility
• balance and coordination activities to decrease falls and injuries
• adaptive play activities to allow a child to participate in school or recreational activities such as T-ball or basketball
• aquatic (water) therapy to strengthen weak muscles
• safety and prevention programs
• heat, cold, electrical stimulation, massage, and ultrasound therapies to improve circulation around injuries

Pediatric Physical Therapists use a wide variety of treatment techniques in order to meet the needs of their clients. These techniques include: therapeutic exercise, postural education, gait training, strengthening, electrical stimulation, modalities and accessing the need for equipment. Pediatric Physical Therapists strive to meet the needs of their clients through fun, age appropriate activities as well as through the education of their family or caregivers. Families and caregivers will receive a home program that can be carried out during typical activities throughout the day.

If a child is referred to Physical Therapy, they will be evaluated by a licensed Physical Therapist. Goals will be set, followed by a specific treatment plan to meet those goals. Goals are formed by the Physical Therapist with the input of the family and/or the child to achieve the skills most important to them. These goals are based on achieving functional skills. The treatment program is then carried out at home and during regular scheduled therapy sessions.

If you have any other concerns regarding a child's overall motor development, contact your primary care physician to help identify if your child may benefit from physical therapy.