Physical therapy can help individuals of all ages, starting from birth. In fact, the term 'neonatal physical therapy' is an advanced practice area in pediatric physical therapy. Physical therapists in neonatal units work in close collaboration with other members of the healthcare team to monitor the baby's breathing, swelling, and overall movement patterns. Physical therapists have played a significant role in the care of infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and have helped to increase survival rates in babies born prematurely.
When working with babies in the NICU, the therapist must identify and address these precious infants' unique and changing needs. Neonatal physical therapists need advanced training to safely and efficiently meet the neurodevelopmental and musculoskeletal needs of infants and their parents' educational and emotional needs.
The ultimate goal for neonatal physical therapists is to provide treatments that will improve successful long-term outcomes for preterm infants.