Physical therapy plays a gentle, powerful role in every stage of your child’s orthopedic journey—whether supporting recovery from injury, guiding growth, or enhancing movement and confidence. At POBAR, our compassionate, fun, and family-centered approach helps children heal stronger and happier. Ready to explore how PT can support your child? Contact us today. We’re here to help your family take confident, caring steps forward. |
When your child faces a bone, joint, or growth‐related condition, physical therapy becomes a powerful source of healing, strength, and confidence. Our pediatric physical therapy is more than exercises—it’s a gentle path toward restored play, growth, and well‑being. We understand how hard it is to watch your child struggle, and we’re committed to guiding your family with warmth, compassion, and expertise.
Why Physical Therapy Matters
Physical therapy for pediatric orthopedics offers vital benefits that support every stage of your child’s journey:
- Restore Function & Mobility – Through specialized, play‑based exercises, young bones and muscles regain strength and movement.
- Reduce Pain & Swelling – Techniques such as gentle stretching, range‑of‑motion exercises, and therapeutic modalities ease discomfort.
- Encourage Healthy Growth – Especially after injuries like fractures or growth‐plate trauma, PT ensures alignment and proper development.
- Prevent Future Issues – Strengthening and coordination exercises support joints and bones, reducing the risk of repeated injuries.
- Boost Confidence – Fun, engaging sessions help children feel capable and motivated, physically and emotionally.
Common Conditions Treated with PT
We often use physical therapy to support children facing:
- Fractures and Growth Plate Injuries – Restoring strength and correcting alignment after casts or bracing.
- Gait Abnormalities – Improving walking patterns caused by limb length differences or muscle imbalances.
- Joint Sprains & Dislocations – Rebuilding function and range of motion after injuries.
- Congenital Conditions – Such as clubfoot, hip dysplasia, or muscle tone differences.
- Developmental & Neuromuscular Disorders – Including toe walking, torticollis, flatfeet, and cerebral palsy.
What to Expect at Physical Therapy
1. Child‑Centred Assessment
Our therapists begin with a playful evaluation—observing how your child walks, sits, and plays—and perform gentle tests for strength, balance, and flexibility.
2. Personalized, Fun‑Based Plan
Therapy incorporates engaging activities: obstacle courses, balls, balance games, swings, even underwater play—all designed to feel like playtime while promoting recovery.
3. Family Involvement
We teach you easy exercises to continue at home, turning everyday time into healing moments.
4. Steady Progress Tracking
Every visit is an opportunity to celebrate progress—from improved steps and strength to greater confidence and joy.
5. Collaboration with Your Orthopedic Team
Our therapists work closely with our specialists to align goals, ensuring seamless care whether recovering from surgery, injury, or growth-related issues.
When Does PT Join the Orthopedic Journey?
Physical therapy may begin:
- After Injury Healing – Once a fracture is stabilized or a sprain is no longer acutely painful.
- Post‑Surgery – To rebuild strength and restore movement safely.
- Early in Developmental Issues – To guide hip dysplasia, torticollis, or gait changes.
- Alongside Bracing – Such as for scoliosis or flat feet, where movement aids correction.
Your Family’s Role in Therapy
Your support is essential:
- Create a calm routine for home exercises.
- Celebrate daily improvements—whether a new jump, smoother gait, or less pain.
- Keep appointments—inconsistent therapy can delay progress.
- Ask questions—our team is here to guide and reassure you at every stage.
Why Choose POBAR for Physical Therapy
At POBAR, we offer:
- Specialized Pediatric Experience – Therapists trained in children’s growth and movement.
- Compassionate, Supportive Environment – Low‑stress sessions that feel safe and fun.
- Seamless Orthopedic Collaboration – Full coordination with our surgeons and specialists.
- State‑of‑the‑Art Care – Combining hands‑on techniques, therapeutic play, and parental education.
Your child’s healing isn’t just physical—it’s about helping them grow stronger, more confident, and joyful again.
Let’s Take the Next Step Together
If your child is beginning—or already on—the orthopedic journey with us, physical therapy can be the heart of their progress. Reach out to us today to schedule a PT evaluation. Together, we’ll create a gentle, effective plan tailored to your child’s needs, guiding their steps toward a brighter, healthier future.
FAQ
What age is PT appropriate for?
Physical therapy helps children from infancy through adolescence. Early intervention—especially for developmental concerns—can make a big difference.
Is physical therapy painful?
Not in the least. All activities are designed to be gentle, fun, and encouraging. Kids often think it’s play.
How long does therapy take?
The timeline depends on your child’s condition. Some improve in a few sessions; others benefit from ongoing care over months.
Will PT replace surgery?
Not always, but it often helps avoid surgery or makes recovery faster and smoother when surgery is needed.
What if we miss a session?
Consistency helps, but don’t worry—a little scheduling bump won’t ruin progress. Just keep in touch to stay on track.

Dr. Timothy Bradley, a distinguished member of the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America and the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, is a leading expert in pediatric orthopedics serving the community of Brandon, Riverview and whole of Tampa. With a commitment to providing the highest quality care for young patients, Dr. Bradley has earned a reputation for excellence in the field. His expertise and dedication to improving the lives of children through orthopedic solutions make him a trusted authority in the orthopedic community. Dr. Bradley’s
work at POBAR in Tampa exemplifies his passion for compassionate and effective healthcare, ensuring a brighter and healthier future for young patients.