Health Promotion and Physical Wellness in Pediatric Physical Therapy

Abstract

Purpose: A health promotion and physical wellness (HPPW) life course approach for pediatric physical therapy (PT) is recommended to improve children’s health outcomes across the lifespan. Summary of Key Points: A life course approach describes how a child’s individual responses to environmental factors influence health outcomes. Using HPPW strategies, pediatric physical therapists can identify health risks and promote positive outcomes. Outcome measures and intervention recommendations are outlined to assist therapists in integrating HPPW strategies to ensure a longitudinal plan of care and optimal health outcomes for children. Conclusions and Recommendations for Clinical Practice: A child’s health trajectory begins in the prenatal period and is influenced by individual and environmental factors. Pediatric PT uses child- and family-centered approaches and environmental assessments to design plans of care that address child and family HPPW goals. Incorporating HPPW strategies into pediatric PT facilitates positive health and physical wellness across a child’s lifespan. See the video abstract for insights from the authors. Video Abstract: Supplemental digital content available at https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/3g468hj1rpxrrivbeses0/HPPW-Video-Abstract_1080.mp4?rlkey=4p1i8z1gynroz064zpx3alijz&st=8u0gqemz&dl=0.