Who Can Benefit From Physical Therapy?

^{Reviewed by: My Child Without Limits Advisory Committee September 2009}

Doctors may recommend physical therapy for children who have difficulty moving in such a way that it limits daily activities. Some of these conditions include:

• developmental delays
• cerebral palsy
• genetic disorders
• orthopedic disabilities
• heart and lung conditions
• birth defects (such as spina bifida)
• limb deficiencies
• muscle diseases

Physical therapists might guide children through a variety of different exercise routines and activities such as:

• developmental activities such as crawling and walking
• flexibility exercises to increase range of motion
• balance and coordination activities
• adaptive play
• aquatic (water) therapy

Next:

What Are the Benefits of Physical Therapy?

Download the Introduction to Physical Therapy.