Variation in Intensive Pediatric Physical Therapy Practice in the United States: Results From a National Survey.
Publication Title
Pediatr Phys Ther
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
10-1-2025
Keywords
Humans; Child; United States; Physical Therapy Modalities; Child, Preschool; Cerebral Palsy; Male; Female; Practice Patterns, Physicians'; Physical Therapy Specialty; Neuromuscular Diseases; Surveys and Questionnaires; Health Care Surveys; dosing; intensive programs; pediatric physical therapy; survey; alaska; anchorage
Abstract
PURPOSE: Intensive pediatric physical therapy (PT) programs are increasingly common yet lack a clear definition. This study aimed to examine current practice patterns of intensive pediatric PT in the United States.
METHODS: A survey was developed and administered using the FITT (frequency, intensity, time, type) model and Knowledge to Action Cycle for pediatric physical therapists providing intensive PT. Survey respondents included pediatric physical therapists providing intensive physical therapy in outpatient, non-acute settings. Data analysis used descriptive statistics and cluster analysis.
RESULTS: Eighty pediatric physical therapists reported intensive programs involved children aged 4-6 years with cerebral palsy (90%), neuromuscular (78%), and neuromotor (44%) disorders. Greatest dose often-always ranged from 2-5 visits per week, ≤60-120 minute sessions over 3-8 weeks. Top interventions included locomotor training (80%), task-specific training (78%), and progressive resistive exercise (76%). Two clusters were identified based on therapist organization and dose.
CONCLUSIONS: This first study of intensive pediatric PT revealed marked variability, underscoring the need for a standardized definition to improve clinical care.
Area of Special Interest
Women & Children
Specialty/Research Institute
Pediatrics
Specialty/Research Institute
Physical Therapy
DOI
10.1097/PEP.0000000000001229
