At FuncPhysio Physical Therapy, we believe healthy movement starts at a young age. While many people think physical therapy is only for adults recovering from injury, children and teenagers can also benefit greatly from specialized care. Pediatric physical therapy is not just about fixing pain—it’s about teaching kids how to move well, prevent injuries, and build confidence in their bodies as they grow.
Because children’s bodies are always developing, our treatment approach changes depending on age.
Physical Therapy for Kids Under 12
Before age 12, children are not yet developing significant muscle strength the way adults do. Instead, therapy focuses on motor control, coordination, and body mechanics. At this stage, kids are learning how to:
- Use their bodies properly during daily activities and sports
- Improve balance and stability
- Prevent injuries caused by poor posture or movement habits
By teaching efficient movement patterns early, children can run faster, play sports with more confidence, and avoid injuries later on. Therapy sessions for younger kids often include fun, play-based activities that build stability and awareness while keeping them engaged.
Physical Therapy for Teens (Ages 12–18)
Between ages 12 and 18, kids go through rapid physical changes. They begin to develop more muscle strength, but they also experience growth spurts that can cause tightness, posture changes, or movement imbalances.
At this stage, teen physical therapy focuses on:
- Restoring flexibility and mobility where growth has created restrictions
- Building balanced strength to support healthy joint and muscle development
- Correcting posture and teaching safe exercise or training techniques
- Addressing sport-specific demands for young athletes
This combination not only helps teenagers recover from injuries, but also reduces the risk of future injuries and improves athletic performance.
Real-Life Case Examples
- 10-year-old with gait abnormality and slow running speed
This child came to FuncPhysio because he noticed he was running significantly slower than his peers. On assessment, we found that he had inwardly rotated legs due to poor trunk and leg control. Instead of focusing on “strength” (which hasn’t fully developed yet), we used fun and engaging exercises to improve stability, coordination, and balance. Over time, his running became more efficient and confident.
- 15-year-old soccer player with low back pain
A high school athlete came to us after straining his lower back during soccer. We found that his abdominal muscles were underactive, while his back muscles were working too hard. This imbalance created unnecessary tension and pain. Treatment focused on:- Educating him on proper posture and squat form
- Teaching him how to engage his core correctly
- Strengthening his hips and abdominals to support better performance
Not only did his back pain improve, but he also gained more power and control on the field.
Why Pediatric Physical Therapy?
Every child deserves the chance to move well and feel confident in their body. Whether it’s a young child struggling with walking or running, or a teenager facing sports-related pain, early physical therapy can make a lifelong difference.
At FuncPhysio Physical Therapy, we tailor every session to the child’s developmental stage, sports involvement, and daily activities. Our goal is not just recovery—it’s helping kids build strong foundations for movement, prevent injuries, and thrive in the activities they love.
