Just like an adult, when a child or teenager injuries themselves, the road to recovery may include physical therapy sessions. Again, similar to adults — a physical therapy regimen can be lengthy and physically demanding. For this reason, it is often helpful for parents to help prepare their children for this journey so that they can get the best result from the experience. Read below for tips before taking your child to a physical therapist.
1. Explain the Importance
A good place to begin is with a conversation with your child about why physical therapy is important. If your child has an injury that has impacted their mobility, such as an ACL tear, or their ability to participate in the activities they enjoy, such as sports, explaining to your child that completing physical therapy is the way to get back to normal is often a good way to get them on board and make them feel better about the process.
2. Outfit with the Right Gear
If your child is uncomfortable, they will be less willing to be actively engaged in the therapy process, so make sure you outfit your child in the right gear. Athletic shoes and a loose-fitting top and shirt are a great start as they allow for greater flexibility and comfort. If you need additional help, the therapist can provide you with tips on what your child should wear.
3. Schedule Sessions Wisely
Be mindful of how you schedule the sessions. After the initial evaluation, the therapist will typically provide feedback on the number of visits that are required. Although there might be an urge to get the process over as quickly as possible, scheduling appointments too close together, such as daily can cause a child to feel burnout and be less engaged, which will not help their recovery. Give your child a chance to rest between sessions for the best result.
4. Choose a Facility Wisely
Always consider the age of your child before you select a physical therapy facility. If you have a teenager, you can likely visit any facility, but if you have a younger child, a pediatric facility may be a better option as it may have an environment that makes your child feel more comfortable. Keep in mind, some facilities provide pediatric and adult services, so be sure to do your research as you look for options.
Keep all these factors in mind as you prepare for your child's physical therapy session to ensure they are prepared and to make the experience as stress-free as possible.
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