I am confident that a career as a pediatric physical therapist would be both interesting and fulfilling. I am eager to experience the excitement and hard work that accompanies this job. Given my ability to effectively work with children and my skill in instilling confidence during rehabilitation sessions, I believe I have what it takes to be successful in this field.
Physical therapy has long piqued my interest, as it is a demanding yet rewarding profession that offers opportunities for personal and professional growth. Becoming a physical therapist represents the ultimate level of professionalism in this field. These specialists focus on treating and providing care for toddlers, babies, children, and teenagers with various genetic, neurological, and orthopedic disorders.
Pediatric physical therapists usually work 40 hours per week, with most of them practicing in hospitals and clinics, rehabilitation facilities, schools, fitness centers, and other occupational environments. They offer various treatments like massage sessions, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and hot & cold compression. Additionally, they assist children with personalized exercises to address their specific needs. These therapists play a vital role in helping young individuals manage their disorders and illnesses while boosting their confidence and strength. This is why I am enthusiastic about pursuing this profession. Apart from therapeutic interventions, physical therapists also conduct developmental testing on young children to prevent or address deficiencies.
Physical therapists play a vital role in identifying potential issues before they occur through research, aiming to find various methods of assisting in a child’s rehabilitation. An article on autism spectrum disorder specifically examines how aerobic exercise can enhance the academic responses of affected children. In a study, half of the children were instructed to exercise before their academic classes, while the other half went directly to class without exercising, serving as the control group for comparison. The results revealed that aerobic exercise has the potential to improve the academic responses of children with autism spectrum disorder. Autism spectrum disorder encompasses three distinct disorders: Autism, Asperger Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder.
Another study focused on investigating the effects of different positions on individuals with cerebral palsy, such as sitting up, lying on your side, lying on your stomach, and lying on your back. These positions provided researchers insights into how each position impacts the respiratory system. It is advisable for this therapy to be non-invasive.
Various specialists in the field of pediatric physical therapy focus on specific areas. Cardiopulmonary therapists rehabilitate patients with cardiovascular issues and address breathing problems through gentle workouts. Geriatric therapy helps patients with cancer and arthritis. Neurological therapy is one of the most challenging disciplines in medical science. Orthopedic therapists aid recovery from bone-related injuries using exercises and techniques.
Pediatric physical therapists also treat children affected by conditions like Spina Bifida, which causes a neural defect resulting in incomplete closure of the spinal canal around the spinal cord. Scoliosis affects spine curvature, while Torticollis restricts neck movement due to a shortened neck muscle.
Osgood-Schlatter is a common type of knee pain that affects young males during the growth spurt period.
Cerebral Palsy is a brain condition that limits a child’s movement ability. It occurs due to damage to the motor control centers during pregnancy or childbirth.
I strongly believe that pediatric physical therapy is the perfect career choice for me. It provides various opportunities in areas I am passionate about. Working with children and having a high level of creativity are my strengths. I enjoy designing innovative exercises to enhance a child’s strength. This field fulfills my desire to support and empower individuals, helping them feel strong and confident despite their circumstances.
