Pediatric Physical Therapy
At Great Strides, we proudly provide pediatric physical therapy in Land O Lakes, FL, helping children build strength, coordination, and confidence as they grow. Our licensed pediatric physical therapists specialize in age-appropriate, play-based therapy designed to support infants, toddlers, and children with developmental delays, movement challenges, injuries, or neurological conditions.
We work closely with parents to create individualized treatment plans that promote safe movement, improved mobility, and long-term functional success right here in the Land O Lakes community. By focusing on early intervention and family education, Great Strides helps children reach important milestones and thrive at home, school, and play.
Learn more about pediatric physical therapy and how we can help your child learn and grow at their full potential!
What Can Pediatric Physical Therapy Help With?
A licensed physical therapist works closely with children and their families to teach targeted exercises and stretches that support healing and improve range of motion, strength, balance, coordination, and safe movement patterns. Physical therapy can also help reduce pain and inflammation related to injury, illness, or developmental conditions. Early intervention physical therapy focuses on developmental milestones, infant movement, and proper positioning to promote healthy growth. Because gross motor skills form the foundation for fine motor abilities and social development, physical therapy plays a vital role in helping children move, explore, and thrive.
We can help with a variety of diagnoses that includes but is not limited to:
- Developmental delays (gross motor delays, delayed milestones
- Torticollis and plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome)
- Cerebral palsy
- Down syndrome and other genetic conditions
- Autism spectrum disorder (motor coordination and strength challenges)
- Hypotonia (low muscle tone)
- Hypertonia and spasticity
- Toe Walking
- Balance and coordination disorders
- Gait abnormalities (in-toeing, out-toeing, abnormal walking patterns)
- Muscular dystrophy
- Spina bifida
- Brachial plexus injuries (Erb’s palsy)
- Orthopedic conditions and injuries (fractures, post-surgical rehab)
- Sports-related injuries
- Scoliosis and postural disorders
- Joint hypermobility
- Neurological conditions affecting movement and mobility
How Long Will My Child Need to Go to Physical Therapy?
The length of care for pediatric physical therapy in Land O Lakes, FL varies for every child and depends on the injury, diagnosis, or developmental need being addressed. Some children may benefit from therapy for only a few weeks, such as after a minor injury or surgery, while others with more complex or ongoing conditions may require care over several months or longer.
No matter the duration, it’s important to remember that every child is unique and progresses at their own pace. Our pediatric physical therapists focus on individualized treatment plans that support steady progress, confidence, and long-term success for each child.
What To Expect From The First Few Physical Therapy Sessions
Parents often wonder what to expect during their child’s first pediatric physical therapy in Land O Lakes, FL visit. During the initial sessions, our physical therapist will take time to learn about your child’s medical history, developmental milestones, and any current concerns to better understand their unique needs. The therapist will observe your child during play and everyday activities to identify movement challenges, strengths, and areas for growth.
Based on this evaluation, the therapist will collaborate with you to establish clear, individualized goals that may focus on mobility, coordination, balance, strength, or functional skills. A personalized treatment plan is then created using engaging, age-appropriate activities, exercises, games, and specialized equipment. Parents are also given guidance and strategies to support progress at home.
The evaluation process helps set the foundation for your child’s success by ensuring therapy is tailored to their abilities and pace. By the end of the initial visit, you’ll have a clear understanding of the therapy plan and how pediatric physical therapy can help your child reach their fullest potential. Our team is always available to answer questions and support your family every step of the way.
