Frequently Asked Questions

On this page, we provide answers to the most commonly asked questions about physical therapy.  We hope you enjoy the information and share it with others.  If you do not find what you are looking for, don't hesitate to get in touch!

First appointment: What should I expect?

Typically, your first appointment will include a detailed therapy evaluation.  This will entail an interview of the child and their family to determine the goals you want to accomplish with therapy.  There will be paperwork to fill out to give us all your details, as well as a hands-on assessment to get to know your child and determine the main focus of therapy.  Click here if you would like to download your paperwork to fill out prior to your therapist's arrival.

Does my Health Insurance cover phyiscal therapy?

Every insurance plan is different.  Some cover 100% of treatments and others cover a portion.  As a courtesy to you, we will check the eligibility and benefits of your insurance, but ultimately, it is best for you to check with your insurance company to ensure costs.

What is pediatric physical therapy?

Pediatric physical therapists (PTs) work with children and their families to assist each child in reaching their maximum potential to function independently and to promote active participation in home, school, and community environments.  Physical therapists use their expertise in movement and apply clinical reasoning through the processs of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and intervention,  As primary health care providers, PTs also promote health and wellness as they implement a wide variety of supports for children from infancy through adolescence in collaboration with their families and other medical, educational, developmental, and rehabilitation specialists.

Pediatric physical therapy promotes independence, increases participation, facilitates motor development and function, improves strength and endurance, enhances learning opportunities, and eases challenges with daily care giving.

© Copyright 2009.  Developed by the Practice Commitee of the Section of Pediatrics, APTA, with special thanks to expert contributors Mary Jane Rapport, PT, PhD, Lisa Chiarello, PT, PhD, PCS, and Lynn Jeffries, PT, PhD, PCS.

What are the goals of physical therapy for my child?

Goals are different and created custom to each child, as all children are unique.  Goals may include:

• Muscle Control and Coordination
• Lengthening Tight Muscles
• Strength and Endurance
• Gross Motor Development
• Gait and Mobility Training with or without Adaptive Equipment
• Balance and Coordination
• And Much More!

It looks like play.  Is pediatric therapy just playing with my child?

Play is the media most often used in the therapist's treatment of children.  Children's main function in life at a young age is playing and exploring!  We use play to motivate the child while we facilitate the movement or position we want to see the child improve with.  The treatment has to be FUNctional and FUN to the child in order to be effective.

What is durable medical equipment?

Durable medical equipment (DME) is a term used to describe any medical equipment used in the home to aid in a better quality of life.  This may include:

• Wheelchairs
• Walkers
• Standers
• Seating Systems
• Bath Chairs
• Etc.

What age do pediatric therapists work with?

Pediatric therapists work with children from birth to 21 years, and even adults with developmental disabilities.

Do you have questions that were not answered here?  If so, use our contact form to ask us any question!  Or give us a call: (928) 377-9867