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Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
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Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh
Physical Therapy

Physical Therapy Department

The Physical Therapy Department at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh provides comprehensive services to assist infants, children and adolescents with their gross motor, mobility, and balance skills.

Licensed physical therapists with expertise in pediatrics work with children and families to develop goals that optimize the child’s functional abilities.

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What Is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy helps to improve mobility in children who are restricted due to injury, surgery, or developmental delays.

What conditions do you treat?

Pediatric physical therapists at UPMC assess and provide treatment services for children with:

  • Amputation and limb differences.
  • Coordination and balance issues.
  • Developmental delays and motor planning difficulties related to gross motor skills.
  • Mobility limitations.
  • Neurological disorders, such as cerebral palsy, brain tumor, or traumatic brain injury.
  • Orthopaedic issues, such as arthritis, musculoskeletal injuries, fractures, or surgeries.
  • Sports injuries.
  • Torticollis, a neck condition that causes the head to tilt or twist to one side.

Who can benefit from physical therapy?

Children whose mobility, coordination, and balance are restricted due to injury, surgery, or developmental delays can benefit from physical therapy.

What Physical Therapy Services Do You Offer?

Our pediatric physical therapists work with each child and family to develop a unique program that meets their needs. We use specialized exercises and training to:

  • Improve coordination, balance, and stability.
  • Increase muscle tone, control, and flexibility.
  • Recover joint mobility, strength, and endurance after injury.
  • Reduce mobility limitations, such as difficulties with transfers and ambulation.
  • Teach proper use of adaptive equipment, such as walkers and gait trainers.

What Can I Expect at the Department of Physical Therapy?

All children referred to the department receive an individual assessment to identify impairments and limitations that interfere with the child’s functional skills.

During the first appointment, you can expect your child's physical therapist to take a full health history. They will observe your child as they move or play and discuss their current abilities and limitations with you. They will then begin building a treatment plan that meets your child's needs and goals.

Your child will have regular visits with their therapy team to work toward their goals.

What is a physical therapist?

A pediatric physical therapist is a health professional who addresses issues like gross motor abilities, strength, endurance, and coordination, using adaptive equipment and training when necessary. 

Do I Need a Referral to Physical Therapy?

Yes, referrals are required from your child’s primary care or specialty physician. Insurance authorization may be required if your child is enrolled in a managed care insurance plan. For more information, please call the office number.