Physical Therapy

Physical therapists at Heartspring Pediatric Services work with children of a variety of ages and with a variety of medical diagnoses including cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, torticollis, plagiocephaly, idiopathic toe-walking, developmental delay, club foot, spinal muscular atrophy, and many more.  The Physical Therapy Gym at Heartspring provides a colorful, fun setting for children to receive services.  During an evaluation, physical therapists look at a child's range of motion (flexibility), strength, muscle tone, gross motor skills, and ability to transition between different positions.  If a child walks independently, the physical therapists may also use a computerized gait mat to assist in analyzing the child's gait.  If a child has difficulty walking, the phyiscal therapist may use a pediatric partial body weight harness and treadmill, so that the child can increase strength to support their weight when walking, develop balance skills, and also learn the appropriate sequence of events involved in taking a step.  When a child comes for physical therapy, the physical therapists try to incorporate therapy activities into fun games.  Physical therapists also assist families to determine appropriate adaptive equipment and need for orthotics.