Physical Therapy Treatment
A licensed physical therapists provides our physical therapy treatment. We require an evaluation or consultation prior to treatment to obtain a baseline, establish a treatment program, and determine goals.
We offer physical therapy treatment in both Group and Individual settings. If desired, both may be used in conjunction.
Individual Treatment
LONG VISIT: 45 minute session with 10 minutes for questions and cleanup.
SHORT VISIT: 20 minute session with 10 minutes for questions and cleanup.
These appointments are one-on-one skilled physical therapy for children of any age. Physical therapy typically includes directed strength exercises, supervised/assisted developmental activities, and stretching or range of motion activities. Toys and games are frequently used to make the activities more enjoyable. Many children throw tantrums or complain during physical therapy, especially when first starting out. Physical therapy activities should never hurt your child, but can sometimes be uncomfortable. Physical therapy is physically challenging for children, but never too hard.
We often invite parents to participate depending on age. We allot time at the end of the session for questions. Exercises and activities to do at home during the week are often assigned in order to maintain progress. Sessions can be in person or via Telehealth.
I recommend our 3 month treatment bundles offering discounted rates. This offering is based on research data demonstrating that children in long term care make better progress with periodic breaks from therapy.
Group Treatment
45 minute session with 10 minutes for questions and cleanup.
Our group sessions have a one therapist to 5 children ratio. We require parent participation when your child is under 4. Parent participation is also recommended for elementary school age participants. Group physical therapy does not differ much from individual. Most activities are the same. During group therapy, children will either take turns doing an activity, or will all complete it at the same time.
Children benefit from treatment with their peers, which often drives quicker progression. Many children do wonderfully in a group setting. Group therapy can drive both social and physical development and progress.
We allot time at the end of each session for questions. Your therapist will assign exercises and activities to do at home during the week in order to maintain progress.
Group therapy is more cost effective than individual therapy.
We currently have 2 group therapy offerings—1 for children with Torticollis and 1 for children who are not yet sitting.
Things to Know
What Should My Child Wear or Bring to Physical Therapy Sessions?
Your child should dress in comfortable, loose fitting clothing. Tennis shoes or athletic shoes are generally advised. Dresses for girls are not suggested, as they can get in the way for many activities. For children over 1 year, bringing a water bottle is a good idea.
For infants, please bring diapers and wipes, as well as a change of clothes. We recommend a change of underwear for newly toilet trained children.
Can Parents/Caregivers Observe or Participate in Sessions?
Generally, yes! We love parent participation. When parents are present, they can continue to work on the same skills in the home, resulting in better and quicker results. Occasionally, we ask parents to step out. This happens when the parent’s presence is a hindrance to treatment or is distracting the child. We require parent participation in group therapy for children 4 and under.
What are the Benefits of Group Physical Therapy Treatment?
Group physical therapy treatment has many benefits, and not all of them are for the child. First, children tend to progress faster when around their peers. They can see other children and mimic. Treatment with others can boost morale and willingness to participate. Group settings can also make certain activities more fun, such as catching a ball. Second, group therapy can teach social skills and patience. Children will often have to take turns and interact with other children.
I strongly believe that group physical therapy also can help the family as well. It builds a support network. It allows parents to see others going through similar struggles. For first time parents, this is particularly valuable. They can see that what they are dealing with is normal, and even learn from other parents that have more experience.
Are Telehealth/Virtual Sessions Available?
In some cases. Group therapy is not available in a virtual format. Teletherapy is an option for both individual therapy and initial consultations. Please note that any virtual assessments or treatments are never as effective as in person. Virtual treatment is also generally unsuccessful without active parent involvement. Please contact me to schedule virtual sessions.