Physical Therapist

Responsibilities:

About the job

The pediatric physical therapist evaluates and treats children with physical disabilities or challenges that impact their movement, motor skills, and functional abilities. They work in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, schools, and rehabilitation centers, to help children achieve their physical potential through specialized therapies, exercises, and interventions.

Key Responsibilities:

Evaluation and Assessment:

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of the child's physical abilities, including mobility, strength, flexibility, and balance.
• Observe motor skills development and identify any developmental delays or physical limitations.
• Review the child’s medical history and collaborate with other healthcare professionals (e.g., doctors, occupational therapists, speech therapists) for a holistic treatment approach.
• Create a tailored therapy plan based on the child's individual needs and goals.

Treatment Planning:

• Develop individualized treatment plans focused on improving physical movement and motor function.
• Establish clear, measurable goals and track the child’s progress.
• Adjust therapy techniques as needed based on the child’s progress or any changes in condition.
• Educate parents and caregivers on how to assist with home exercises and provide advice on making the home environment more conducive to the child’s progress.

Therapeutic Interventions:

• Utilize a variety of techniques, such as exercises, stretches, balance training, and coordination activities to address mobility and developmental concerns.
• Use specialized equipment, such as adaptive devices, therapeutic tools, or gait trainers, when necessary.
• Apply manual therapy techniques or soft tissue mobilization to improve muscle function and flexibility.
• Work on motor planning, muscle strengthening, and gross motor skill improvement, depending on the child’s diagnosis.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with families, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals to ensure the child’s treatment plan aligns with their overall care.
• Keep detailed records of patient assessments, progress, and treatment plans.
• Offer guidance and support to parents regarding child development and therapeutic exercises at home.
• Communicate effectively with families about progress, challenges, and goals.

Education and Training:

• Educate parents on the child’s condition, treatment plan, and expected outcomes.
• Provide caregivers with instructions for exercises and activities to continue at home.
• Teach children appropriate techniques to improve movement, posture, and daily functional activities.

Monitor Progress and Adjust Treatment Plans:

• Regularly assess the child's progress to determine the effectiveness of interventions.
• Modify therapy plans based on the child’s response, feedback, and progress.

Maintaining Documentation:

• Complete thorough and accurate documentation of evaluations, treatment plans, sessions, and progress.
• Ensure that all records comply with legal and regulatory standards.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

Experience:

• Experience working with pediatric populations, including infants, children, and adolescents.
• Knowledge of childhood developmental milestones and the ability to treat a range of physical challenges (e.g., cerebral palsy, spina bifida, Down syndrome, orthopedic injuries).

Skills:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with children and their families.
• Ability to create a fun, supportive, and encouraging environment during therapy sessions.
• Compassion and patience when working with children.
• Physical stamina and manual dexterity to assist children with exercises and mobility challenges.

Qualifications:

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree and/or Master’s/or Doctorate in Physical Therapy
• Valid New York State license to practice physical therapy. Must maintain license in good standing.
• Valid NPI Number

Experience:

• Experience working with pediatric patients, especially those with severe disabilities and complex medical conditions.
• Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000