Pediatric physical therapy is a specialized branch of therapy focused on addressing the unique physical needs of children from infancy through adolescence. Physical therapists employ various interventions to help children improve mobility, strength, coordination, balance, and overall physical function. Understanding common conditions treated by pediatric physiotherapy and the associated treatments is crucial for parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to ensure that children receive the appropriate care they need.

Common conditions:

Developmental delays: Developmental delays encompass a range of delays in achieving motor milestones, such as crawling, walking, or running. These delays may be due to factors such as prematurity, neurological conditions, musculoskeletal disorders, or genetic syndromes. Pediatric physical therapy aims to promote motor development and help children reach their full strength by addressing underlying impairments and facilitating skill acquisition.

Cerebral palsy (CP): Cerebral palsy is a group of neurological disorders that affect movement, muscle tone, and coordination. Children with CP may experience difficulties with walking, balance, coordination, and fine motor skills. Pediatric physical therapy focuses on improving functional mobility, muscle strength, range of motion, and postural control through targeted exercises, gait training, orthotic interventions, and adaptive equipment.

Orthopedic conditions: Orthopedic conditions such as congenital limb deformities, fractures, sports injuries, and musculoskeletal disorders can impact children’s physical function and mobility. Pediatric physical therapists utilize various interventions, including manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, splinting, bracing, and modalities such as heat or cold therapy, to manage pain, promote healing, and restore optimal musculoskeletal function.

Torticollis and plagiocephaly:

Torticollis is a condition characterized by tightness or asymmetry of the neck muscles, leading to limited range of motion and head tilt. Plagiocephaly refers to an asymmetrical head shape often associated with torticollis. Pediatric physical therapy interventions for torticollis and plagiocephaly include stretching exercises, positioning techniques, tummy time activities, and parent education to promote symmetrical movement patterns and prevent positional head deformities.

Treatment approaches:

Therapeutic exercises: Therapeutic exercises are tailored to each child’s specific needs and goals, targeting areas such as strength, flexibility, endurance, and coordination. Exercises may include activities to improve balance, coordination, and gross motor skills, as well as functional tasks related to daily activities and sports participation.

Gait training: Gait training involves teaching children proper walking patterns and improving functional mobility. Pediatric physical therapists assess gait mechanics, muscle strength, and joint range of motion to develop individualized gait training programs. Techniques may include treadmill training, balance exercises, and use of assistive devices such as walkers or orthotics to optimize walking function.