What is pediatric physical therapy? What are its goals?
Pediatric physical therapy helps children achieve their potential for functional independence. Pediatric physical therapists use a variety of techniques and interventions to address medical needs and support natural development.
Pediatric physical therapists work with families and other health care providers in support of children from infancy through adolescence. The goals of physical therapy treatment are to facilitate motor development, improve strength, enable the child to maximize their participation in activities of daily living as they mature.
What is the difference between physical therapy and occupational therapy?
The practice of Physical Therapy (PT) is concerned with providing services where functions and movements are hampered by injury, disease, or environmental factors. Physical therapists help clients improve their physical well-beings, which can directly improve their social, psychological and emotional health as well. Pediatric physical therapy focuses on treating children from infancy through adolescence.
According to the World Federation of Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy (OT) is defined as a profession concerned with promoting health and well being through occupation. Occupational Therapy is widely used in physical, mental and community health settings.
Physical therapists and occupational therapists often work together to provide for a child’s needs.
Where will physical therapy sessions take place?
Services most often occur at your home, daycare, or school. In Karen’s professional experience, physical therapy provided in a child’s natural environment is often the most effective. GSPT also has access to a therapy center in Wheaton, MD if a clinic setting would optimize the child’s therapy outcomes.
What can I expect during a physical therapy session?
Pediatric physical therapy treatment begins with an evaluation of the child and discussions with the family in order to determine needs and set appropriate goals. Treatment sessions are then designed to address these needs, and may include elements that promote muscle strength, joint function, mobility, flexibility, endurance, posture and balance, as well as other areas of the child’s development such as sensory and neuromotor skills.
What credentials are required for pediatric physical therapists?
The practice of physical therapy is governed by state law. Each state has its own licensing and practice requirements. In general, a pediatric physical therapist must attend and graduate from an accredited physical therapy degree program, and pass a state licensing exam. Pediatric physical therapists have specialty training in addressing the unique needs of children.
Do you coordinate with my child’s doctor and other health care providers?
Absolutely. We believe that active collaboration is a touchstone of effective physical therapy. Accordingly, we proactively seek input from the child’s physicians and other healthcare providers to identify medical needs, set appropriate goals, and determine the most effective treatment plan.
How do I pay for services? Can I get insurance reimbursement for my child’s appointments?
As an independent care provider, we do not participate directly with insurance. Nevertheless, physical therapy services provided to you may be eligible for reimbursement from your health insurer. Since each insurance offers different out-of-network benefits, calling your insurance ahead of time is recommended to help you make the best decision. You will receive an invoice for all services that may be submitted directly to your insurance for reimbursement.