Pediatric physical therapy

Patients from 0 to 18 years old can visit the pediatric physical therapist. The pediatric physical therapist treats children with a delay in their motor development, or children who struggle with problems of certain movement skills.

Target group

In babies there may be a positional preference, causing the head to grow asymmetrically. In older children there may be a delay in motor development. Think of children with physical or intellectual disabilities, but also children whose fine or gross motor skills are (not yet) sufficiently developed.

The pediatric physical therapist also treats children who suffer from (growth) pain, injuries, or other relevant physical symptoms. Children can also see a regular physical therapist for this, but the pediatric physical therapist generally has more knowledge of this target group.

These may be children who cannot keep up with their peers physically. When they are bullied or excluded because of their limitation, this can also lead to psychosocial complaints.

Because a child cannot always indicate a problem well, good communication between the pediatric physical therapist, parents, and/or teachers is very important. They often notice a problem first and then raise the alarm.

An appointment with the pediatric physical therapist

After hearing the story of the parents and/or the child, the pediatric physical therapist will perform an examination and administer tests specifically aimed at mapping the problem.

For movement problems in the child, the skills that are not well developed are trained by means of exercises. This is done in a way that children also find fun and interesting. Learning then takes place in a playful way. Parents and teachers receive advice on how best to support and stimulate the child in daily life.

Where does a pediatric physical therapist work?

A pediatric physical therapist often works in a private practice, rehabilitation center, or at schools. There is often collaboration with other disciplines such as a speech therapist, child psychologist, and pediatrician.

Find a practice for pediatric physical therapy

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