Pediatric Physical Therapy Baltimore, MD

If your child could benefit from the attention of an experienced physical therapist, it’s time to explore the kinds of pediatric physical therapy Baltimore, MD parents and physicians trust. At LeMoine Physical Therapy, our dedicated team of physical therapists treat patients of all ages. From babies experiencing developmental gross motor delays to elite teenage athletes, many of our clients are kids and teens. As a parent, you want what’s best for your child. Schedule a consultation with our team today to determine whether pediatric physical therapy sessions could assist your child with the physical challenges they’re currently facing.  

Pediatric Physical Therapy – Baltimore, MD

There is a common misconception that the only people who can benefit from physical therapy are individuals who are recovering from a traumatic injury. Certainly, we treat patients from all walks of life who have recently experienced injury as a result of a car accident, sports accident, or other traumatic circumstances. However, we also treat patients of all ages who struggle with various other physical challenges.

For example, we work with babies, young children, and older children who are struggling to meet specific physical milestones. Many kids experience delays in their developmental growth that can be aided by physical therapy. Additionally, we treat many kids who suffer from chronic disease and those who have physical disabilities. The idea that a child must have sustained trauma to benefit from Baltimore pediatric physical therapy services is a myth.

Finally, we also treat child performers and athletes who can benefit from physical therapy services designed to keep their bodies strong, healthy, and injury-free. Oftentimes, prevention is indeed the best medicine. By seeking physical therapy services proactively, you can potentially avoid the need to seek out such services due to injuries sustained down the road.

Potential Benefits of Seeking Pediatric Physical Therapy Services

No physical therapist can guarantee the outcome of a specific treatment plan. However, skilled physical therapy practitioners are positioned to design treatment plans so that they benefit from the greatest possible chances of success. Here are a few of the potential benefits that your child may experience if you seek pediatric physical therapy services on their behalf:

• Improvement in balance, coordination, and physical strength
• Minimizing pain and successful management of any ongoing pain
• Improved endurance, flexibility, mobility and range of motion
• Achievement of developmental gross motor milestones
• Improved sense of safety and ability to be more independent
• Achievement of new skill-sets or regaining previously mastered skill-sets
• Improved confidence and emotional well-being tied to the achievement of one or more of the goals noted above

Physical Therapy Services Are Available

If you have not already done so, connect with the dedicated team of providers at LeMoine Physical Therapy to discuss your child’s unique situation and needs. Once we have a better understanding of your child’s circumstances, we can craft a personalized Baltimore pediatric physical therapy treatment plan designed to meet those needs. We look forward to speaking with you and to assisting your child. Contact LeMoine Physical Therapy today.

Common Questions About Physical Therapy Treatment For Newborns And Infants

Seeking pediatric physical therapy Baltimore, MD parents recommend may be advisable for those with small children who may require treatment of this nature. Physical therapy complements medical treatments, especially for newborns, infants, or young children who have been injured, experienced a birth injury, or have been diagnosed with a disability. 

Physical therapy is a form of treatment aimed at treating the musculoskeletal system. A physical therapist will carefully assess the baby’s development and form a treatment plan to develop muscle strength and mobility for newborns and infants. At LeMoine Physical Therapy, our team knows that children are a precious gift, and parents will want to ensure that their babies are thriving and on target with developmental milestones. Our team can work closely with parents to help achieve positive outcomes and answer the many questions parents will have surrounding physical therapy and the advantages these treatments can offer. 

Why would physical therapy for an infant be recommended?

Physical therapy for an infant can be a way to rehabilitate babies who have suffered a birth injury or have been diagnosed with a disability. Physical therapy can address and treat issues that may have been diagnosed at birth or even when the baby was still in the womb. Some babies experiencing deficiencies may suffer from delays or gross motor development, which can severely impair their ability to meet the necessary milestones. 

What are common signs that an infant may need physical therapy?

Most parents are incredibly attuned to their babies, their medical conditions, and their ability to meet expected milestones. However, in some cases, parents may not be aware of a disability until they notice delays in achieving the abovementioned milestones. Common signs a baby may require Baltimore physical therapy include:

• Being unable to bear weight on legs at six months of age
• Not achieving critical milestones in the first year
• The baby is not able to crawl, walk or stand by 12 months
• Being able to hold their head up
• Babies that were born prematurely
• Babies that suffered injuries at birth

Can physical therapy assist with problems that may arise from nursing?

Nursing is one of the most challenging tasks a new mom will experience after a baby is born. Not only does it take commitment, but it can also be incredibly exhausting. However, sometimes, despite perseverance, complications can occur, and sometimes despite best efforts, it can be challenging to be successful in a breastfeeding journey. However, sometimes despite the necessary commitments, success can feel impossible. A physical therapist can help new moms and babies to learn strategies to reduce pain and assist with proper positioning to maximize success and manage pain. 

Can a physical therapist help with developmental delays such as crawling, standing, or walking?

Sometimes, babies may be delayed in meeting critical developmental milestones like walking, crawling, or standing. While this may be a sign of a deeper problem, a physical therapist can help with identifying potential issues and developing a treatment plan aimed at helping babies to build muscle strength, gross motor skills, and meet critical milestones. 

Do physical therapists need a specific license to treat infants or newborns?

Young children and babies are incredibly vulnerable, and because of this, parents must make sure that they select a physical therapist who has experience in treating children of a young age. When searching for a physical therapist, it’s essential always to choose a professional who is board certified in pediatric physical therapy. 

To learn more about the advantages and treatment options of Baltimore physical therapy available for newborns, infants, and adolescents, contact our team from LeMoine Physical Therapy to schedule an appointment. 

What’s the Difference Between Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy?

People sometimes get occupation therapy confused with Baltimore, MD pediatric physical therapy. While there are similarities in the treatments, they are still quite different. Occupational therapy concentrates on improving fine motor skills, like dressing and feeding yourself and proper coordination. Physical therapy, on the other hand, focuses on building gross motor skills, like balance and physical strength.

Can I Be Involved in My Child’s Physical Therapy?

Absolutely. In fact, a physical therapist will encourage you to be very involved in your child’s treatment. For example, the therapist may assign various exercises for your child to do at home to increase strength and flexibility. Consider doing these exercises alongside your child several days a week.

What Will Happen During the Initial Physical Therapy Appointment?

When you first come in for your child’s physical therapy appointment, the therapist will ask various questions about your child’s medical history, including illnesses, allergies, medication and development. Be sure to answer each question openly and honestly. Remember to bring your child’s photo ID, insurance, school reports and referrals.

Then, the physical therapist will perform a physical exam and other necessary tests to determine your child’s strength, mobility, balance and range of motion. Once these tests are complete, the physical therapist will recommend a treatment plan that fits your child’s needs.

What Should My Child Wear?

It is important for your child to be as comfortable as possible for Baltimore pediatric physical therapy. Have your child wear loose and athletic clothing, such as sweat pants and a t-shirt. This will allow your child to move comfortably around during the session.

How Long Does My Child Have to Be in Physical Therapy?

As a parent, you are likely curious how long your child will have to attend physical therapy. The truth is that it depends on your child’s overall health and severity of his or her condition. Some children may benefit from just a few physical therapy sessions while other children with more severe development problems may need to attend physical therapy longer. After an initial evaluation, a physical therapist can estimate how many sessions your child will need.

How Long Will Each Physical Therapy Session Last?

Like many people, you likely live a busy life and wonder how long each pediatric physical therapy session will be. Depending on your child’s age, tolerance and condition, it will usually last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.

What Are Gross Motor Skills?

Gross motor skills are skills that let you control the muscles of the body for bigger movements, like crawling, jumping, walking, running and climbing.

Why Are Gross Motor Skills Important?

Gross motor skills help children achieve many important milestones during their development. They will be able to make small movements, like shifting their own weight. These skills will help children advance further, including gaining the ability to walk backward, run and jump.