Developmental therapy comprises various disciplines including physical therapy and treats developmental delay by concentrating on improving a child's ability to meet developmental milestones involving sensory, gross and fine motor skills, according to the University of Michigan Health Systems and Center of Development. Physical therapy for developmental delay focuses on improving balance, strength, endurance and flexibility to improve and promote a healthier functioning level. Since all conditions vary, obtain medical clearance before starting any home exercises.
Helps After Illnesses
You may need physical therapy for development delay after long bouts of illness that hinder various stages of growth and/or development, according to Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. When individuals have illnesses, certain positioning may become prohibitive due to pain levels. For instance, belly maneuvers play a crucial role in development, but children with liver disease have swollen bellies, making belly movements too uncomfortable. Therapy for crawling children can include some crawling exercises. Start by placing the child on his belly then placing an item, such as a toy, in front of the child. Use verbal cues and gentle toy shaking to encourage the child to crawl towards you.
Uses Toys And Games
Many times physical therapy involves specific exercises, but with younger individuals, physical therapy for developmental delay consists mainly of toys and games. Physical therapy needs to be fun to prevent boredom and/or frustration. Therapy can include shooting basketball hoops, playing in the therapy room, riding a bike and/or playing with ball, depending upon the individual's condition and age,
Fine Motor Skills
Some developmental delays may affect an individuals' fine motor skills, according to the University of Michigan Health Systems. Fine motor skills involve being able to use your hands and fingers properly to perform everyday tasks such as picking up a pen and writing, holding an eating utensil and feeding yourself, playing with toys, picking up or gripping items, brushing hair, brushing teeth and/or feeding yourself.
Physical therapy for developmental delay can include hand strengthening exercises that improve gripping capabilities. Do a gripping exercise by placing a tennis ball, piece of putty or similar-sized rubber ball into the right hand. Squeeze as tightly as possible for 10 seconds. Release grip and relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise five times. Do the exercise again by using the left hand.
Develops Balance
Gross motor skills can be affected by developmental delay. Gross motor skills involve your large muscle groups and make walking, crawling, rolling over, sitting, running and standing possible. Large muscle groups play a key role in maintaining body balance. Physical therapy for developmental delay can work on improving your balance by using exercises that concentrate on strengthening your leg muscles.
Start by standing up facing the back of a firm chair. Place both hands onto the top of the chair for support purposes. Gently raise your right foot and bend your knee so your heel goes toward your butt. Place your body weight onto your left leg. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Slowly lower your leg back to the original position. Relax for 10 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10 times. As you become stronger, balance yourself progressively with only one hand, then only your fingertips, then no hands.
