Instructional Use Statement

The following information is used for instructional purposes for students enrolled in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at Lane Community College. It is not intended for commercial use or distribution or commercial purposes. It is not intended to serve as medical advice or treatment. Contact howardc@lanecc.edu for permissions.

 

PTA 204 Children Playing.jpg

 

Introduction

In PTA 100, we introduced treatment considerations for the pediatric population. Outcomes and goal setting for pediatric populations are unique in that they are constantly adapted to meet the needs of a growing, developing, individual, and include immediate and extended family, teachers, coaches, and an interdisciplinary team. In this lesson, we will expand on the understanding of treatment theories and compare approaches for a given condition. Additionally, we will discuss and study specific considerations for pediatric patients diagnosed with asthma (Pagliarulo, 2012).

Physical therapy interventions vary, depending on many scenarios. There are standards in the profession that the physical therapist assistant (PTA) will encounter. This lesson is designed to help you become familiar with some of the more common pediatric physical therapy interventions and environments you may encounter. Interestingly, research has not proven one intervention better or worse than another when used appropriately. This may be because so many factors influence effectiveness. Master clinicians use a wide variety of techniques and interventions that can be modified based on variables including but not limited to the child's pathology, family structure, living situation, age, and past history. The following discussion is by no means an all-inclusive discussion of PT interventions; it should be used as an overview and guide.

 

Lesson Objectives

  1. Describe age related changes in muscle and muscle performance from infancy through puberty
  2. Describe the SAID principle and how it influences exercise prescription in the pediatric population
  3. Recognize the differences between intervention philosophies in the pediatric populations.
  4. Identify the primary purposes of using therapeutic garments in pediatric physical therapy
  5. Develop effective interventions and responses in simulated pediatric patients with asthma