Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy Basics

Doctors often recommend physical therapy for kids who have been injured or have movement problems from an illness, disease, or disability.

After an injury, physical therapists are often able to relieve pain and help kids resume daily activities. Physical therapists teach kids exercises designed to help them regain strength and range of motion, and also show them how to prevent a recurring injury.

Physical therapy (PT) may be needed any time a child has difficulty moving in such a way that it limits daily activities.

Doctors may recommend PT for kids with:

sports injuries
developmental delays
cerebral palsy
genetic disorders
orthopedic disabilities/injuries
heart and lung conditions
birth defects (such as spina bifida)
effects of in-utero drug or alcohol exposure
acute trauma
head injury
limb deficiencies
muscle diseases

What Physical Therapists Do

Physical therapists use a variety of treatments to help build strength, improve movement, and strengthen skills needed to complete daily activities.

Physical therapists might guide kids through:

developmental activities such as crawling and walking
training to build strength around an injury
flexibility exercises to increase range of motion
balance and coordination activities
adaptive play
aquatic (water) therapy
safety and prevention programs
instruction on how to avoid injuries
improving circulation around injuries by using heat, cold, exercise, electrical stimulation, massage, and ultrasound

During a visit, a physical therapist may:

measure the child's flexibility and strength
analyze the way the child walks and runs (a child's gait)
identify potential and existing problems
consult with other medical, psychiatric, and school personnel about an individual education plan (IEP)
provide instructions for home exercise programs
recommend when returning to sports is safe

What to Look for in a Physical Therapist

As of 2010, entry-level physical therapists must earn a master's degree or receive a doctoral degree in physical therapy (a DPT) from an accredited college program. Physical therapists also must pass a state-administered national exam.

States also may impose their own regulations for practicing PT. You can find out more information about any other requirements for local physical therapists by contacting your state's licensure board.

Finding a Physical Therapist

Physical therapists typically work in hospitals, private practices, fitness centers, and rehabilitation and research facilities. Ask your doctor for recommendations or contact your state's physical therapy association for names of local licensed physical therapists. Coaches or phys-ed teachers at your child's school also might be able to recommend a physical therapist.

Reviewed by: Carolyn T. Giles, PTA
Date reviewed: May 2011

Related Resources

Easter Seals Easter Seals is a nonprofit, community-based health and human services provider dedicated to helping children and adults with disabilities and special needs gain greater independence.

American Physical Therapy Association This organization provides information on physical therapy, from therapists in each state to current research.

Cerebral Palsy Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common congenital disorders of childhood. This article explains causes, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and more.

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Delayed Speech or Language Development Knowing what's "normal" and what's not in speech and language development can help you figure out if you should be concerned or if your child is right on schedule.

Broken Bones, Sprains, and Strains Broken bones and torn muscles, ligaments, and tendons happen. Find out what to do if your child experiences any breaks, strains, or sprains.

Preventing Children's Sports Injuries Participation in sports can teach kids sportsmanship and discipline. But sports also carry the potential for injury. Here's how to protect your kids.

Autism Autism affects a child's communication and social skills, behaviors, and ability to learn. There's no cure, but early intervention and treatment can help kids improve skills and achieve their best potential.