Pediatric physical therapists provide evaluation and treatment to infants and children with deficits in the area of gross motor skills. The goal of the therapy is to help each child reach their maximum potential for functional independence.
Physical therapy for infants includes developmental activities such as rolling, crawling and tummy time. Physical therapy also works on balance and coordination skills, endurance, gait training (learning to walk) strengthening, range of motion, and tone management for infants and children.
The pediatric physical therapist assists in obtaining appropriate equipment such as orthotics (braces), walkers, gait trainers, standing frames, and wheelchairs.
Additional activities and programs may be developed for parents to participate in the treatment of their child at home.