Pediatric physical therapists provide services to children or youth who have genetic, congenital or acquired conditions that affect motor development and motor function, including positioning, sitting and walking.
Through any one of Kennedy Krieger's inpatient or outpatient programs, the physical therapy department provides the following clinical services:
- Comprehensive evaluations and recommendations
- Direct interventions based on therapy goals and outcomes
- Assistance with coordination of services and program planning
- Assistance with functional management of the child in the home, school and community
- Assessment and recommendations of a child's equipment needs
- Family and patient education regarding appropriate goals and interventions, home exercise programs and adaptive equipment
Our Approach:
The Physical Therapy Clinic uses a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach based on individual treatment goals. Our team uses a range of therapeutic exercises, devices, and procedures to improve muscle strength, range of motion, posture, balance, and coordination.
The clinic offers both traditional and short-term, intensive treatment, based on individual goals.
- Traditional Delivery Model: Many patients with developmental disabilities and injuries require traditional physical therapy, for example, to assist with mobility or flexibility, and often visit the clinic on an ongoing weekly basis.
- Short-Term Intensive Therapy: The clinic also works with patients who require more intensive therapy in a short amount of time to work on a specific goal, such as transitioning from a walker to crutches. These patients typically receive physical therapy for one to three hours a day, three to five days a week.
Other services offered include:
- Consultative evaluations
- Recommendations for home programs
- Training to patients, families, and caregivers in the use of specific equipment and orthotics