Pediatric Physical Therapy in Philadelphia

When seeking pediatric physical therapy services in Philadelphia, families have access to various locations that offer specialized care for children. One prominent provider in the region is The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), which offers pediatric physical therapy at their location on 3401 Civic Center Blvd in Philadelphia, PA 19104 [1].

Locations Offering Pediatric PT

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) provides pediatric physical therapy services at several locations throughout the Philadelphia area. These locations include:

For more specific information about the locations and services offered, it is recommended to visit the CHOP website.

Qualifications for Physical Therapists

Physical therapists providing pediatric care in Philadelphia must meet specific qualifications and licensure requirements. In Pennsylvania, applicants for physical therapist licensure must hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education or another recognized national organization. Additionally, they must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).

At The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), the physical therapists who provide care to pediatric patients have the necessary qualifications and expertise in working with children. They undergo specialized training and have experience in addressing a wide range of pediatric conditions. This ensures that children receive the most appropriate and effective care for their specific needs.

Parents seeking pediatric physical therapy for their child can have confidence in the qualifications and expertise of the physical therapists at CHOP and other reputable healthcare providers in Philadelphia.

In the next section, we will explore the approach taken by pediatric physical therapists in working with children and the therapeutic techniques they employ to address various conditions.

Approach to Pediatric Physical Therapy

When it comes to pediatric physical therapy in Philadelphia, a specialized approach is taken to address the unique needs of children and young adults. Physical therapists in Philadelphia utilize a range of therapeutic techniques and collaborate closely with the child's medical team to provide comprehensive care.

Therapeutic Techniques Used

Physical therapists in Philadelphia employ various therapeutic techniques to address movement, coordination, balance, strength, and endurance issues in children and young adults. These techniques are tailored to the specific needs and abilities of each child. Some of the common therapeutic techniques used in pediatric physical therapy include:

Exercise Programs: Physical therapists design customized exercise programs to improve strength, flexibility, and motor skills. These programs may include activities such as stretching, strengthening exercises, and balance training.
Therapeutic Play Activities: Play is an essential component of pediatric physical therapy. Therapists incorporate play-based activities to engage children and make therapy sessions fun and motivating. Through play, children can develop motor skills, coordination, and balance.
Gait Training: Gait training focuses on improving a child's ability to walk or move independently. Physical therapists may use assistive devices, such as walkers or crutches, to support and guide the child through the process of walking.
Manual Therapy: Manual therapy techniques, such as joint mobilizations and soft tissue mobilizations, may be used to improve joint range of motion, reduce pain, and enhance functional abilities.

Collaboration with Medical Team

Physical therapists in Philadelphia work closely with the child's medical team, caregivers, school, and community to ensure a holistic approach to pediatric physical therapy. Collaboration with the medical team helps therapists gain a comprehensive understanding of the child's medical history, diagnosis, and treatment goals. This collaborative approach allows for effective coordination of care and ensures that therapy aligns with the overall treatment plan.

Collaboration with caregivers and families is also crucial in pediatric physical therapy. Open communication and involvement of caregivers in the therapy process enable them to better understand their child's condition and play an active role in their child's progress. Parents are encouraged to learn and safely perform exercises and activities at home, establishing a routine home program that supports the progress made during therapy sessions. For resources on at-home therapy activities, check out our article on at home speech therapy activities.

By utilizing therapeutic techniques and fostering collaboration with the medical team and caregivers, pediatric physical therapists in Philadelphia strive to promote independent functioning and improve the quality of life for children and young adults.

Conditions Treated with Physical Therapy

Pediatric physical therapy plays a vital role in treating various conditions in children, helping them reach their developmental milestones and improve their overall quality of life. In the Greater Philadelphia area, physical therapy is available for a wide range of pediatric conditions. Let's explore some common conditions that benefit from physical therapy and the importance of early intervention.

Common Pediatric Conditions

Physical therapy can effectively address several conditions in children, including:

Torticollis (tight neck)
Plagiocephaly (flat head)
Hypotonia (low muscle tone)
Neurologic disorders
Neuromuscular disorders
Premature birth
Cerebral palsy
Genetic disorders
Developmental and gross motor delays

By targeting these specific conditions, pediatric physical therapists can provide tailored treatment plans to address the unique needs of each child. Through a combination of therapeutic techniques, children can improve their motor skills, strength, coordination, and overall physical abilities.

Benefits of Early Intervention

Early intervention is crucial when it comes to pediatric physical therapy. Identifying and addressing developmental challenges at an early age can significantly impact a child's long-term outcomes. Early intervention programs focus on providing therapy to infants and toddlers who may exhibit delays or disabilities.

Research has shown that starting physical therapy early can lead to better outcomes and improved functional abilities in children. By addressing developmental delays and motor difficulties during the critical early years, children have a greater opportunity to reach their full potential.

Early intervention programs also play a vital role in involving parents and caregivers in the therapy process. This collaboration between therapists and parents helps create a supportive and nurturing environment for the child's growth and development. Parents are provided with strategies and activities to continue the therapeutic interventions at home, promoting consistent progress.

By addressing common pediatric conditions through physical therapy and implementing early intervention strategies, children in the Greater Philadelphia area have access to specialized care that can positively impact their physical abilities and overall well-being. If you're looking for pediatric physical therapy services in Philadelphia, organizations like Play at Home offer comprehensive therapy programs designed to meet the unique needs of young children.

Research on Pediatric Physical Therapy

Pediatric physical therapy is backed by research and evidence-based practices to ensure the best outcomes for young patients. In this section, we will explore two areas of research in the field: the effects of motor learning therapy and dosing protocols and outcomes.

Effects of Motor Learning Therapy

Motor learning-based therapy has been the subject of extensive research, particularly for infants with cerebral palsy. A study aims to determine the short-term and long-term effects of different dosing protocols of motor learning-based therapy on infants with cerebral palsy aged 6-24 months, specifically those with GMFCS (Gross Motor Function Classification System) III-V severity levels [3].

The study involves a prospective randomized controlled trial with 75 infants with cerebral palsy or at risk of cerebral palsy. The infants, aged 6-24 months, are randomly assigned to one of three dosing groups: concentrated daily therapy, intermediate therapy, or usual weekly therapy. Over a period of 5 months, each group receives a total of 40 hours of therapy [3].

The primary outcome measure for the study is the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-88). Secondary outcomes include the Bayley Scales of Infant Development 3rd edition (Bayley-III), Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), Infant-Preschool Play Assessment Scale (I-PAS), and the Family-Professional Partnership Scale survey to measure parent satisfaction [3].

The findings of this research project will provide recommendations for the frequency of rehabilitation to optimize motor function and development in young children with cerebral palsy. It aims to determine the most effective dosing protocol for motor learning therapy in infants with cerebral palsy, considering their age and severity level.

Dosing Protocols and Outcomes

Another area of research focuses on comparing the effects of different dosing protocols in pediatric physical therapy. A study aims to directly compare the effects of three frequency levels of therapy - concentrated daily, intermediate, and weekly - in children with cerebral palsy aged 6-24 months.

The study follows participants for 2 years to assess the outcomes. It will evaluate the short-term and long-term effects of the different dosing protocols on motor function, development, and overall progress in children with cerebral palsy. By comparing the outcomes, the study aims to determine the optimal frequency of treatment for pediatric rehabilitation.

The research project is funded by the NIH grant 5R01HD083384 and is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02857933). The findings of the trial will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences, contributing to the growing body of knowledge in the field of pediatric physical therapy [3].

Research plays a crucial role in shaping the field of pediatric physical therapy, informing therapists about the most effective therapeutic techniques, dosing protocols, and outcomes. By staying up to date with the latest research findings, pediatric physical therapists in Philadelphia can provide evidence-based care and improve the lives of their young patients.

Personalized Physical Therapy Services

When it comes to pediatric physical therapy in Philadelphia, personalized services are essential for providing the best care for children. Two aspects that contribute to a tailored approach are in-home pediatric therapy and the importance of consistent care.

In-Home Pediatric Therapy

In the Greater Philadelphia region, Play at Home offers physical therapy sessions that take place in the comfort of the child's home. This personalized approach allows the child to feel more at ease in familiar surroundings and reduces potential stress associated with new environments [4].

By conducting therapy sessions at home, the child receives one-on-one attention from the same therapist during each session. This consistency fosters a strong and personal understanding of the child's needs and treatment plan. Additionally, the therapist can observe the child's everyday environment, allowing for more targeted interventions and recommendations.

Importance of Consistent Care

Consistent care from the same physical therapist is emphasized as essential for achieving the best outcomes in pediatric physical therapy sessions in the Greater Philadelphia region. The therapists at Play at Home focus on developing a specific plan of care that provides families with tools to continue exercises and techniques at home after the child has been discharged [4].

Maintaining constant communication with families in between appointments is another key aspect of consistent care. This ongoing support allows for improvements and adjustments to the home treatment plan based on the child's progress and needs [4]. By working closely with families, therapists can ensure that the child's therapy journey continues seamlessly outside of formal sessions.

Transitioning from one frequency of therapy to another occurs when a child moves from one life stage to another, from one functional level to another, or from one environment to another, such as transitioning from hospital inpatient to home or from preschool to school [5]. This transition is managed by the therapist, ensuring a smooth progression of care.

By providing personalized, in-home physical therapy sessions and emphasizing consistent care, pediatric physical therapists in Philadelphia can create a supportive and effective environment for children to thrive. This approach helps to maximize the child's progress, enhance their overall well-being, and effectively address their specific needs.

Therapy Programs and Parent Involvement

When it comes to pediatric physical therapy, therapy programs that involve active parent participation play a crucial role in the success of the child's progress. In Philadelphia, therapy programs are designed with short-term goals, and progress is assessed every three months. This collaborative approach between parents and professionals has been shown to yield positive results in children's development and functional skills acquisition [5].

Program Design and Assessment

Therapy programs are tailored to meet the specific needs of each child. They are designed with short-term goals in mind, allowing for regular assessment and adjustments as necessary. The programs are typically categorized into different frequency levels based on the guidelines provided by therapists. These frequency categories include:

The determination of the frequency and duration of therapy services depends on the child's individual needs and goals [5]. The transition from one frequency level to another may occur when a child moves from one life stage to another, from one functional level to another, or from one environment to another, such as transitioning from hospital inpatient to home or from preschool to school [5].

Role of Parents in Therapy

Parents play a significant role in their child's success during physical therapy sessions. They are encouraged to actively participate and learn how to safely perform exercises and activities with their child. Establishing a routine home program is essential to reinforce the progress made during therapy sessions. By actively engaging in their child's therapy, parents can create a supportive environment that promotes continued growth and development.

At Play at Home PT, physical therapy sessions are conducted in the comfort of the child's home. This personalized approach ensures one-on-one care and allows the child to establish a familiar and comfortable connection with the therapist. The consistency in therapy sessions, with the child seeing the same therapist each time, is vital for optimal outcomes. These sessions are designed to be enjoyable for both the child and the parents, with minimal tears as the child is not forced through the process.

By actively involving parents in therapy programs, children receive consistent care and support throughout their physical therapy journey. The partnership between parents and therapists creates an environment that enhances the child's progress, functional skills, and overall development. With parents as active participants, the therapy process becomes a collaborative effort dedicated to the well-being and success of the child.