Physical Therapy

What Physical Therapists Do?

Physical therapists are movement experts who improve quality of life through prescribed

exercise, hands-on care, and patient education. Physical therapists diagnose and treat

individuals of all ages, from newborns to people at the end of life. Physical therapists examine each person and then develop a treatment plan to improve their ability to move, reduce or manage pain, restore function, and prevent disability. They help people achieve

fitness goals, regain or maintain their independence, and lead active lives.- APTA,org

Why would a kid be referred to PT? If the child exhibits deficits in:

• Gross motor skills Walking

• Running Strength

• Coordination Stairs negotiation

• Balance Posture

• Endurance Range of Motion

• Equipment evaluations (wheelchairs, Safety awareness

• standing frames, walkers)

Why does that matter in school?

• Negotiating hallways, lunchroom, and crowded areas

•  Sitting with good posture at desk

•  Playing at recess, accessing recess equipment

•  Going up/down stairs to reach library, gym, etc

•  Tolerating a full day at school

•  Having proper fitting adaptive equipment

•  Lifting books/backpack

•  Playing with peers

•  Pulling open doors for classroom/bathroom

Questions? Feel Free to contact Spectrum Academy’s Physical Therapist: Ashlee Cresswell, DPT, OCS

ashlee.cresswell@spectrumcharter.org