Help Your Child Manage Balance Disorders with Pediatric Physical Therapy
Balance disorders in children are more common than you might think! While we often associate balance disorder with older adults, several childhood conditions can make it difficult for kids to stay on their feet. Our team of physical therapists can help your child navigate these challenges so they can live a healthy, active life.
Improving balance is crucial in helping kids enjoy playtime and other key childhood activities. Call The Pediatric Place to learn how we can help.
Common Causes of Childhood Balance Disorders
Childhood balance disorders can stem from various underlying causes, affecting a child’s ability to maintain stability, coordination, and orientation in space. These disorders may manifest as dizziness, unsteady gait, or difficulty performing tasks that require balance, such as walking or climbing stairs. Understanding the root cause is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Here are some common causes of childhood balance disorders:
- Congenital Issues: Some children may have congenital abnormalities in their vestibular system, which affect their balance spatial awareness.
- Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD): Also known as dyspraxia, DCD is a condition that affects a child’s ability to plan and execute coordinated movements. Children with DCD often experience difficulty with balance, motor coordination, and tasks that require precision, like riding a bike or playing sports.
- Neurological conditions: Neurological conditions that affect movement and posture, such as cerebral palsy, often lead to balance problems.
- Motor Developmental Delays: Developmental delays related to gross motor skills may also contribute to balance disorders in kids.
How The Pediatric Place Can Help
Pediatric physical therapy can play an important role in helping children manage balance & gait disorders. Our comprehensive assessments can help you better understand why your child struggles with balance & gait, and our fun-child-centered approach ensures your child will enjoy their therapy sessions.
We always take the time to get to know your child and learn more about their unique interests and favorite activities. That way, we can tailor their treatment to include things they enjoy doing. Your child’s job is to play; ours is to direct that playtime to address any factors contributing to your child’s balance & gait difficulties.
For example, if your child has a weak core (which impacts balance), we might have them spend time on a swing. If they lack coordination, we might take them through a few rounds of an obstacle course. We’ll provide equipment and ideas to modify the environment, along with activities and suggestions you can incorporate at home, ensuring therapy lasts beyond the clinic.
We’re here to help your child thrive, even if they might feel a little off-balance sometimes. Call our Clinton or Knob Noster, MO clinics to schedule an initial evaluation.
Your Next Steps…
Request An Appointment
Meet Our Multidisciplinary Team
Receive a Seamless Treatment Plan
Start to See Success and Growth!