Pediatric Physical Therapy in Anchorage

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 A pediatric physical therapist is a licensed healthcare professional specializing in treating infants, toddlers, and children up to age 21. At our Anchorage physical therapy clinic, we focus on providing interventions that optimize motor development, helping children achieve and progress through key motor milestones. Unlike general therapists, pediatric physical therapists are highly trained to design treatments specific to the needs of younger age groups, considering their social-emotional, cognitive, and communication abilities to improve physical mobility. By using targeted interventions, handling techniques, and play-based activities, our expert team helps children enhance their motor function and better engage with their surroundings.    

During typical development, children are expected to progress through a series of motor patterns and behaviors to allow them to explore the world around them. The given timeframe in which a child reaches a milestone varies, however if a child has not achieved a specific ability by a certain age, then it may be more challenging for the child to progress into higher level mobility activities. At our Anchorage physical therapy clinic, our skilled pediatric physical therapist support gross motor movements that are also considered motor milestones include rolling, pushing to sit, pulling to stand, cruising (sideways walking with arm support on a surface), walking, ascending<>descending stairs, running, jumping, and kicking a ball. If you're concerned about your child's development, pediatric physical therapy  can help provide the support they need to thrive. For a list of motor milestones from the CDC, click the button below!

Pediatric physical therapists treat a wide range of conditions, including plagiocephaly, torticollis, balance and coordination disorders, developmental delay (late crawlers/walkers), toe-in walkers and toe walkers, Autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, and more. At our Anchorage physical therapy clinic, during your child’s initial evaluation, our skilled pediatric physical therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment using standardized tests, observation, and parental/caregiver input to identify any deficits or impairments. Based on this, a personalized plan will be developed with your involvement, focusing on your child’s specific needs. This approach ensures your child progresses and achieves important gross motor milestones, fostering improved engagement and interaction with their peers and the world around them. 

 In the state of Alaska, a child can be seen by a pediatric physical therapist without a prescription or referral from a doctor, physician's assistant, or nurse practitioner through “direct access.” However, at our Anchorage physical therapy clinic, we kindly request that your child receive a written prescription for physical therapy evaluation and treatment before starting at our clinic. This ensures open communication between your family and your healthcare provider team to provide the best care for your child.