At Physical Therapy & Injury Specialists (PTIS), Englewood, CO, our treatments for pediatric injuries and medical conditions are conservative and noninvasive, aimed at relieving pain and promoting healing. Our highly trained Metro Denver physical therapists incorporate specialized methods into their pediatric physical therapy plans as needed. They also provide patients with light stretching and exercise plans to improve their range of motion and prevent future injuries.
What is pediatric physical therapy? How is it different than adult PT?
Pediatric physical therapy (PT) is a type of care that focuses on improving the muscle movements of younger patients. Like standard PT, it uses various techniques to heal bones, joints, and muscles. It can involve things like massage, ice-pack application, and exercises. The overall goal is to help patients move easily without feeling pain.
The main thing that separates pediatric physical therapy from other physical therapy is that it’s for younger patients. This branch of physical therapy provides care for those under 18. Therapists need extra training since children and teens have different anatomy and healthcare needs than adults. Pediatric therapists specialize in caring for younger patients safely and effectively.
Who is an ideal candidate for pediatric PT?
The usual patient for this care is someone under 18 with joint, muscle, or bone issues. You don’t need to be in good health or even have a diagnosis to benefit from PT. Some of the common reasons children might need this care include:
- They got an injury while playing a sport.
- They were born with an issue like a clubfoot.
- They’ve recently had surgery for an issue.
- They’re recovering from a broken bone.
- They keep complaining of pain in one spot.
What are the benefits? How well does it work?
Physical therapy (PT) for kids is generally a great way to deal with pain following an injury. Research shows it’s also useful for chronic conditions like cerebral palsy. In addition to reducing pain, PT can also improve movement range. It helps build muscles, increase flexibility, and strengthen joints. These benefits combine to help kids run, jump, walk, and play with ease.
Reference: link.springer.com
Does PT hurt?
Though PT shouldn’t necessarily be painful, it can sometimes be a bit uncomfortable. Therapists specializing in pediatric care usually take extra steps to avoid causing any discomfort. Since their clients are younger, they try to be as gentle as possible. Just remember that it can sometimes take slightly longer for benefits to become apparent when therapy is less challenging.
How many sessions will be needed?
The answer to this question depends on why you’re getting PT. Children with mild conditions like occasional back pain might need seven sessions. Meanwhile, those recovering from a big surgery might need around 30 sessions. The average patient gets one to three weekly sessions for a few months.
Does insurance pay for pediatric PT?
Pediatric PT is often a treatment that your insurance will pay for. The only requirement is that you show that it is medically necessary. You might need a diagnosis or referral to qualify for coverage on some plans. However, others may allow you to get PT whenever you feel it’s necessary.
How to get started
If your child has sustained a sports injury, schedule an appointment with Physical Therapy & Injury Specialists (PTIS) today. Our PT Team will help diagnose the issue, create a multispecialty care plan, and help your child recover and return to sport!