Acute care physical therapy (PT) is physical therapy that your child gets while they are staying in the hospital. Physical therapists help your child move safely, build strength, and be more independent. Physical therapy can help your child:
The physical therapist will share progress updates with both you and your care team. They will also help you make sure that your child is ready to go home. This often includes giving you information on:
Your child may keep working with a physical therapist when they go home. These visits may take place at your house or in a clinic, depending on your child’s needs.
Your therapist may give your child exercises and activities to do between visits. These are chosen to match your child’s goals and medical needs.
Physical therapy plans are changed as your child’s strength, energy, and health change. Your therapist will share updates, help you know what to expect at each visit, and guide you on when to schedule follow-up PT.
Ask your physical therapist when it is safe for your child to return to sports and other physical activities. They can help create a plan that fits your child’s condition and recovery.
If your child has new pain, problems with equipment, or safety concerns, contact your physical therapist for advice and to adjust the care plan.
Questions to ask your care team
Why does my child need physical therapy in the hospital?
How often will my child need physical therapy in the hospital?
What will the physical therapist help my child do?
What should I expect during each physical therapy session?
How can I safely support my child’s movement between sessions?
Will my child need equipment such as a walker or crutches?
What should we work on at home?
How will I know when it is safe for my child to return to regular activities?
Key points about acute care physical therapy
Acute care physical therapy helps your child heal, move safely, and get stronger while they are in the hospital.
A physical therapist may join your child’s care team if your child needs help with movement, balance, walking, or recovery.
Your child’s physical therapist will make a care plan based on your child’s health, daily routines, pain, safety, and movement needs.
During the hospital stay, the therapist watches how your child moves and helps them practice safe skills, like sitting up, standing, walking, and using equipment such as a cane, crutches, or a walker.
Your child may continue physical therapy at home or in a clinic after leaving the hospital, depending on their needs.
Children with serious illnesses may need physical therapy, occupational therapy, audiology, and speech-language therapy. Learn about rehabilitation services.
Balance exercises help your child improve stability, move safely, and lower the risk of falls. Learn about balance problems and balance exercises to do at home.
