Wondering if Your Child Needs a PT Eval?

Wondering if your child needs a physical therapy evaluation?

Children typically grow and develop motor skills in a semi-predictable manner. Although developmental rates differ, if children are not meeting motor milestones during certain time periods, it is important to assess if there are underlying reasons for the delay. This is when an evaluation by a physical therapist can be helpful.

Complete an easy checklist to see if your child is meeting typical gross motor milestones by clicking the link below.

Click Here for Gross Motor Checklist

Some other general indicators that PT can help your child:

Infant

Limited head control or other strength concerns
Head Tilt
Preference to look one direction
Asymmetrical head shape
Inability to tolerate tummy time, especially by 3 months of age
Strong preference for using one side of his or her body (versus moving the right and lefts sides equally)

Toddler

Any concerns listed previously for infant
Frequent falls that lead to injury
Inability to jump
Inability to walk up or down stairs
Inability to climb on or off furniture safely
Other strength, balance, or coordination concerns

School-Aged Child

Any concerns listed previously for infant or toddler
Difficulty navigating playground equipment
Difficulty keeping up with peers in physical situations or avoidance of physical abilities due to difficulties (which may result in missing out on social interaction/bonding with friends).

If you have concerns about your child's gross motor development:

Talking with your child's pediatrician is a good place to start, but you do not need a doctor's prescription for a physical therapy evaluation. An evaluation can determine if your child demonstrates a delay with his or her gross motor skills and if physical therapy treatment can help. Even if it is determined that your child does not need physical therapy services at the time of the evaluation, the therapist will be able to give you ideas about how to support your child’s development or refer you to another specialist who may be able to address any concerns observed.