Physical Therapy

Learning to play and playing to learn

A bridge to confidence with physical therapy

Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental delays sometimes have challenges moving through their spaces successfully on a daily basis. These kids often need extra support to develop gross motor skills. At Hopebridge, we do this through the process of play. Our physical therapy environment and exercises are designed to build strength, mobility, balance, coordination, endurance and most of all, confidence.

Physical therapy involves getting the brain, bones and muscles working together to create smooth movements. Children are encouraged to have fun while working to accomplish tasks necessary to attend school and other outings throughout life. Goals can be anything from sitting on a chair or walking long distances, to climbing stairs or using a playground.

Who can benefit from physical therapy?

Our licensed DPTs and PTAs have experience working with a variety of diagnoses and conditions and participate in ongoing training on the most up-to-date and innovative approaches. Hopebridge’s physical therapy specialists assist children with:

Sensory-processing difficulties that produce physical effects
Poor coordination or balance
Muscle tightness or weakness
High or low muscle tone
Gait challenges, such as toe walking
Issues with postural tasks, such as sitting, running or jumping
Delayed or atypical motor milestones
Increased motor stereotypes
Functional movement

How is physical therapy different from occupational therapy?

At Hopebridge, both our OT and PT services focus on building skills from the beginning rather than rehabilitation. Physical therapy is where we focus on how kiddos use their bodies to play – with help from movement and musculoskeletal specialists – whereas occupational therapy builds day-to-day life skills. Though there is some rollover, PT hones in on gross motor skills and OT mostly sharpens fine motor skills. The two therapies are extremely complementary and are often both recommended in the treatment plan.

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Strength in numbers

The proven, team-based Hopebridge360 approach spans essential aspects of treatment, and the benefits of physical therapy are augmented when we combine it with other services within one center.* Collaboration is part of what sets us apart from in-home and other therapy options. This combined knowledge of sensory-processing needs and behavioral tendencies impacts our techniques and makes our therapies more effective overall.

Our facilities have gyms full of specially chosen, pediatric-friendly equipment and activities to motivate and guide our children toward their goals.