What Do I Need to Bring to My Child’s First Pediatric Physical Therapy Appointment?
Physical therapy is a specialized field, and for a child’s first appointment, you should bring additional items that pertain to their physical needs. Here’s what you typically should consider bringing:
- Identification and Insurance: Just as with any medical appointment, bring your photo ID, your child’s ID if applicable (like a birth certificate for infants), your insurance card, and any necessary paperwork about your child’s health insurance coverage.
- Medical Records: This includes relevant medical records like records from the pediatrician, relevant test results, and any diagnosis or referral paperwork. Also, bring any records from orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, or other specialists if your child has seen them.
- Equipment: If your child uses any assistive device, like braces, crutches, or a wheelchair, bring those along. The therapist may want to assess how your child uses the equipment and make adjustments or recommendations as necessary.
- Comfortable Clothing: Your child should wear loose, comfortable clothing to their physical therapy appointment. Depending on the reason for therapy, they might be moving around a lot, so clothing should not restrict movement.
- Questions: Write down any questions or concerns about your child’s physical therapy. This is a new experience for both of you, and it’s important to understand what the treatment will involve, the goals, and how progress will be assessed.
- Comfort Items: Especially for young children, bring along a favorite toy or blanket to make them feel more at ease.
- List of Current Medications: Just like with any medical appointment, you should provide a list of your child’s current medications. Even though physical therapy is often exercise-based, medications can affect your child’s energy levels, mood, and other factors that could influence therapy.
Before the appointment, call our physical therapist at (754) 220-6493 to ask if there is anything specific you should bring. They may have additional requirements or suggestions based on your child’s needs.
