Physical Therapy For Kids
Pediatric Physical Therapy is the treatment and rehabilitation of children and minors. Children can benefit greatly from a customized physical therapy program created just for them. Because of the differenced of children in adults in muscular health, the skeletal system, and ability, our gentle staff has the experience and knowledge to work with any age group.
Pediatric physical therapy plans should include a well-balanced program that focuses on building, rehabilitation, and overall bodily health.
Whether you live in East Village, Greenwich Village or Lower Manhattan our Physical Therapy clinic can be reached with little difficulty.
The fundamental principles of pediatric physical therapy include:
- Developmentally appropriate interventions: Physiotherapy interventions are chosen according to the age, abilities, and specific needs of the child.
- Family-centered care: Physical therapy is the collaborative work between the therapist, child, and family. The therapist works with the family to set goals and involve them in the therapy process.
- Play-based approach: Physical therapy is often provided through play since it motivates children to participate and helps them learn new skills in a fun and engaging way.
The goals of pediatric physical therapy may include:
- Improving gross motor skills (e.g. crawling, walking, running)
- Enhancing fine motor skills (e.g. holding, reaching, manipulating objects)
- Increasing strength, endurance, and flexibility
- Improving balance, coordination, and posture
- Reducing pain and discomfort
- Boosting overall function and participation in daily activities
Physical therapy can be performed at locations, such as in a clinic, hospital, or the child’s home. It may include exercises, stretches, and activities to improve movement and the use of equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, and adaptive toys.
Examples of how pediatric physical therapy has helped different patients include:
- A child with cerebral palsy who was able to walk with the help of a walker after therapy
- A child with Down syndrome who improved their fine motor skills and was able to feed themselves independently
- A child with a spinal cord injury who improved their trunk control and was able to sit up independently
Parents can help their child get the most benefit from physical therapy by:
- Fulfilling the therapy plan prescribed by the therapist
- Integrating therapy exercises and activities into their daily routine
- Communicating with the therapist about their child’s progress and any concerns
- Encouraging and supporting their child’s participation in therapy
- Being involved in the therapy process and setting goals for their child
Dr. Hetarth Kapadia is a licensed physical therapist that has extensive experience working with orthopedic, neurological, and cardiovascular patients, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the practice.
Dr. Hetarth Kapadia received his Bachelor's degree in physical therapy from S.B.B. College Of Physiotherapy and his Master's degree in Kinesiology from California Baptist University, Riverside, California, with a major in Exercise Science.
Dr. Hetarth is now pursuing his Doctorate in Physical Therapy at Touro College in New York. Before becoming a part of our practice, he worked in New York at various outpatient clinics where he dealt with patients with musculoskeletal and orthopedic disorders.
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