The APTA Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy represents pediatric physical therapy and serves as a collective voice to support provision of the highest quality physical therapy services to children, their families, and adults with developmental disabilities. APTA Pediatrics is home to almost 6,000 members who seek to transform society by optimizing movement for lifelong meaningful participation of all children.
Physical therapists work with individuals with childhood onset conditions across their lifespan who are experiencing illnesses, injuries, or conditions that limit their ability to move or function in their daily life. They provide services aimed to improve mobility, develop or restore function, alleviate pain, prevent or decrease permanent physical disabilities, and promote overall health and wellness.
Pediatric physical therapists work in collaboration with children and their families to provide services aimed at promoting a child's ability to function independently and participate actively in home, school, and community environments. Physical therapists use their expertise in movement and apply clinical reasoning through the process of examination, evaluation, diagnosis, and intervention. Pediatric physical therapy promotes independence, increases participation, facilitates motor development and function, improves strength and endurance, enhances learning opportunities, and eases challenges with daily care giving.
