Pediatric Physical Therapy
Pediatric Physical Therapy
By Maurivel Raglin, Physical Therapist Assistant
Here at Arbor Therapy, Physical Therapy can be dynamic, fun and engaging for infants, children and adolescents who have been born with or have suffered disabilities.
Physical Therapists and Assistants work with children and their families to assist each child to reach their maximum potential to function independently and to promote active participation in home, school and community environments. Our goals include enhanced motor and development skills and improved strength, endurance and overall functional growth.
A wide variety of diagnoses are seen at Arbor Therapy, including autism spectrum disorders (ASD), cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy and other associated disorders such as spina bifida, arthrogryposis, cardiopulmonary disorders, torticollis, muscle weakness or low tone, abnormal gait patterns and developmental delay. Post-surgical recovery therapy is available. Therapists also help identify the need for – and training in – the use of orthotics and prosthetics.
At our multiple clinic locations, PT is typically conducted in the amazing, colorful sensory playground gyms. One-on-one appointments are held with licensed and certified professionals who use individualized treatment plans and dynamic activities to improve functional ability and overall gross motor strength, coordination and mobility. Dynamic movement activities may include yoga and positional stretching to promote muscle elongation to decrease rigidity and tightness as well as strength and cardiovascular endurance training by using games and play to facilitate balance and body awareness.
A variety of equipment is used during therapy, including agility ladders, monkey bars, foam pits, balls of all sizes and shapes, parallel bars, rock walls, visual targets, steps, balance beams, treadmills, resistance bands and free weights.
A key to successful treatment for all children is parent education and home exercise programs developed to ensure continuing progress between sessions.
Services at Arbor Therapy are typically offered in the clinics but can also be held by telehealth or at home.
We look forward to seeing you and your child at Arbor Therapy!
