Who Might Need Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy may be recommended any time a problem with movement limits daily activities.
Children may benefit from PT if they have:
- Sports injuries
- Developmental delays
- Cerebral palsy
- Genetic disorders
- Orthopedic disabilities or injuries
- Heart and lung conditions
- Birth defects (such as spina bifida)
- Effects of in-utero drug or alcohol exposure
- Acute trauma or head injury
- Limb deficiencies
- Muscle diseases
What Physical Therapists Do
Physical therapists use a variety of treatments to help children build strength, improve movement, and develop skills
needed for everyday life.
Therapy may include:
- 🚶 Developmental activities (crawling, walking)
- ⚖️ Balance and coordination exercises
- 🎲 Adaptive play activities
- 🌊 Aquatic (water) therapy
- 🔥 Heat, cold, massage, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to improve circulation and healing
- 💪 Strength training around injuries
- 🤸 Flexibility exercises to increase range of motion
- 🛡 Safety and prevention programs to avoid future injuries
During a PT Session
A physical therapist may:
- Measure flexibility and strength
- Analyze gait (how a child walks and runs)
- Identify existing or potential problems
- Consult with medical, psychiatric, and school staff about Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
- Provide home exercise instructions
- Recommend when it is safe to return to sports or physical activities
Our Approach
At North Florida Therapy Services, our physical therapists create individualized treatment plans tailored to each
child’s needs. We focus on helping children regain independence, build confidence, and thrive at home, in school, and
in the community.
Physical Therapy (for Parents) - Nemours KidsHealth
