How do you know when your child needs physical therapy?

Many people might think that physical therapy is only effective for adults. However, the number of children who need medical attention for injuries and other issues is quite large. One article from Nationwide Children’s Hospital (NCH) reports that sports injuries are the second leading cause of injuries during school, as well as the second leading cause for kids to need a trip to the ER. 

Children who are old enough to play sports can benefit from physical therapy, but what about children under 2? Such children can develop issues like torticollis or toe-walking that can benefit from physical therapy. Parents, you may be wondering exactly how you’re supposed to know when your child needs physical therapy. 

Three indications that your child needs physical therapy

Most people have the ability to know when they need help with an injury or medical condition. But it can be harder to judge when your child needs physical therapy or other medical attention. You might be worried about false alarms or looking silly, but erring on the side of caution is typically a good idea with children. There are some indications you can look for that indicate your child might need physical therapy. Three of these indications are: 

1. Your child prefers to turn their head to one side — This indication could be a sign that your child has a condition called torticollis. In young children, torticollis is caused by a problem with the sternocleidomastoid muscle. This muscle runs from the collarbone to the base of the skull behind the ear. Studies show that torticollis occurs in up to 16% of newborns. Research also shows that this condition can be effectively treated with physical therapy. In fact, it’s estimated that physical therapy for this condition is almost 100% effective if it’s begun before the child is 4 months old. 

2. Your child is not walking by 18 months old — Babies can learn to walk as early as 9 months old, but it can take up to 18 months for some to pick up this skill (Genesis, 2019). Children who aren’t walking by themselves at about 18 months old could have a development issue. This means you should contact your pediatrician to get your child evaluated. Your doctor might recommend physical therapy to treat muscle and balance issues. 

3. Your baby only walks on their toes for more than six months — Many children walk on their tiptoes when they first begin walking. However, walking in this way can indicate a development issue called toe-walking if it lasts longer than six months. A review of three studies indicates that physical therapy sessions can lead to beneficial results immediately after completion. These same studies report that the benefits lasted for up to six weeks after treatment. 

Advent Physical Therapy can help you find out if your child needs physical therapy

Are you wondering if your child needs physical therapy? Our team at Advent Physical Therapy is ready and willing to help you find out. We offer free screenings that can pinpoint the source of your child’s issue. Our team can also build them a personalized therapy plan to treat issues like torticollis, walking difficulties and toe-walking.

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment for your child.