When most people think of physical therapy, they imagine adults lumbering through swimming pools or trying to master the art of walking all over again. However, physical therapy isn't an activity confined to adults. Here are two reasons kids see physical therapists, and how therapy might help one of your children someday:

1: Developmental Delays

Have you ever wondered why your doctor's pediatrician has you fill out milestone charts whenever you go in for well visits? Although it might seem like meaningless paperwork, those strange questions about your child's daily activities could help doctors to diagnose developmental delays. If problems are found, your child might be sent to physical therapy to learn how to walk, talk, or move like other children their age. Here are a few reasons your child might suffer from developmental delays, and how physical therapists can help:

• Premature Births: If your child was born early, their little body might not develop quite like it should. Premature kids typically struggle with smaller bodies, which can make it hard to hit physical milestones. However, physical therapists can help your child to learn key movements that will spark growth and interest in physical movements.
• Special Conditions: If your child has special conditions such as cancer, scoliosis, or cystic fibrosis, they might have to learn how to get around in different ways. For example, if your child has to wear oxygen 24/7, a physical therapist might be able to teach them to walk with a small backpack or how to keep their oxygen tubes out of the way.

Whatever your child's physical challenge may be, therapists will be there to help your child to feel comfortable and learn how to overcome issues.

2: Sports Injuries

Sports can help your child to build strong friendships, learn team building skills, and stay physically active. Unfortunately, sports fields can also be dangerous places for kids, resulting in injuries that require physical therapy. However, physical therapists can even help children to overcome these types of injuries:

• Broken Bones: Life with a cast isn't easy, especially if your kid wants to get back on the field with their friends. Fortunately, physical therapists can teach your child how to get around with casts, and how to clean exposed skin.
• Head Injuries: After a serious head injury, your child might have to learn how to play a little differently. For example, if your kid suffered a concussion, they might not be able to participate in gymnastics tumbling in the same way they once did. However, physical therapists might be able to suggest alternate activities that won't compromise your child's previous injury.

With the help of pediatric physical therapy at a clinic like ABC Pediatric Therapy, your child might be able to learn to live a normal life—even after enduring difficult challenges.

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