Pediatric Physical Therapy

The Center for Pediatric Rehabilitation, Inc. offers pediatric physical therapy. The pediatric physical therapist is trained to provide early intervention to infants, toddlers, and children with disorders that effect gross motor development and may be a result of prematurity, birth complications, or musculoskeletal disorders. Treatment focuses on improving muscle strength, balance, posture, range of motion, and quality of movement. We treat the following, and additional disorders:

• Neurological dysfunctions (such as; cerebral palsy & spina bifida)
• Muscular weakness
• Tone abnormalities
• Sensory dysfunctions effecting motor functions
• Orthopedic
• Trisomy disorders
• Muscular Dystrophy
• Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation
• Any impairment effecting motor abilities

The physical therapist's goal is to achieve optimal physical function and independence using play therapy techniques and specialized equipment.

Aspects of Physical Therapy Treatment

Sensory and Motor Development

• Motor learning requires sensory experience. Correct interpretation of sensory information promotes a more normal performance.
• Sensation involves Auditory, Vestibular, Proprioception, tactile, and visual input.
• Voluntary motor control uses attention and interpretation.
• Automatic motor control depends on the motor programs learned and is independent of sensory feedback.
  

Abnormal Tone

• Abnormal Tone is the result of dysfunction in the Central Nervous System where movement performance is affected.
• Changes in the muscular intrinsic properties, such as: Muscle Tension, Reflexive, Voluntary
• The Central Nervous System controls the movement, not the muscles.

Treatment Goals

• Address underlying problems such as hypotonia or general weakness.
• Assist parents in becoming more acquainted with the child's problem and to teach activities to be done at home.
• Prevent / correct / minimize deformities.
• Improve overall health and functional abilities.