#kidzmatter

Each day, when I go to my inbox, I have one or two offers for an amazing webinar about this marketing technique or that book publishing deal. It appears there is never a lack of any advice on any subject, whether you want it or not!  When I drew this cartoon, I thought of the many webinars I have been convinced to join. They are a good way to get some information without the travel. A webinar is…

In lieu of Physical Therapy Month- we are thrilled to feature one of our new team members. Welcome Ruchi! She came to KidZ TherapEZE ready to change lives and make a difference. 

 Let’s get to know her! :)

Ruchi Bagrodia PT, DPT

Growing up, I was always interested in working in a profession where I would get to interact with people and help others. In high school, I was sort of a science nerd and became fascinated with the human body when I studied anatomy and physiology in college. Following undergrad at the University of Texas (Hook ‘em!), I had the opportunity to serve in a low-income public school in Seattle for one year as an educator and mentor for young children. Throughout these unique experiences, I learned a lot about myself. I learned that I wanted a career in which I could fulfill my passions for science, health, education, service to others, and working with children and youth. I happened to find the perfect field of work- I attended Regis University in Denver, CO and received my Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2015. As a physical therapist at KidZ, I am lucky enough to work with amazing colleagues and children who challenge me, make me laugh, and teach me new things every day. I am excited to keep growing as a clinician and moving the PT profession forward!

We love what we do here at KidZ TherapEZE and we’re proud to say we’re good at it! Our goal is to improve the lives and the well being of each patient here. They matter! 

One of our main disciplines we offer is physical therapy. Some may understand what it is and some may not entirely know what it consists of. Let’s find out!

What is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy is the evaluation and treatment of physical impairments in children. The goal of physical therapy is to assist children with physical challenges to increase their independence and improve their mobility, and any other functional skills for daily living. Here at KidZ,  physical therapy is hands-on techniques and therapeutic exercises with play and recreational activities to reach this goal. Therapy is FUN!!!                                                                                                           

A typical physical therapy program for a child may include:

Exercises to facilitate gross motor development

Exercises to improve gait

Stretching

Strengthening weak muscles

Balance and coordination exercises

Exercises to improve endurance

Who can benefit from Physical Therapy?:                                                              

developmental delays

cerebral palsy

genetic disorders

orthopedic disabilities

heart and lung conditions

birth defects (such as spina bifida)

limb deficiencies

muscle diseases

What can it improve?:                                                                                                      

Improved gross motor development

Improved balance

Improved coordination

Increased muscular strength and range of motion

Improved walking pattern

Increased endurance

Normalization of muscle tone

Promotion of healthy and active lifestyle

Building relationships: 

Our kiddos are more than patients!  Every goal met, is a victory to the therapist. They want to see them succeed and live a life of confidence! Our therapist truly care for their patients and that is why we are best at what we do. 

The patients matter. 

#OctoberisPhysicalTherapyMonth 

Animals are wonderful magnificent creatures. They are loyal and loving by nature. Animals as pets are fun and can change your life in so many aspects. They can bring joy, laughter, and companionship.

Not only are pets a great addition to your family, certain animals can be trained to aid various tasks. Pets can be trained to tend, help, and assist someone who might need an extra hand. Therapy animals range in many forms of help and rescue for people of all ages, diagnosis, and disabilities. Therapy animals are not just dogs- they can be horses, birds, bunnies, dolphins, and even pigs! They go through specific testing and training to assure best quality for a patient.

What can Animal Therapy provide?:

                                                                                                                       Physical Health:

lowers blood pressure

improves cardiovascular health

releases endorphins (oxytocin) that have a calming effect

diminishes overall physical pain

the act of petting produces an automatic relaxation response, reducing the amount of medication some people need

Mental Health:

lifts spirits and lessens depression

decreases feelings of isolation and alienation

encourages communication

provides comfort

increases socialization

reduces boredom

lowers anxiety

reduces loneliness

    How can it help my child with disabilities?          

Pets can help children with learning disabilities learn how to regulate stress and calm themselves, making them better equipped to overcome the challenges of their disorder.

Playing and exercising with a dog can help a child with learning disorders stay alert and attentive throughout the day. It can also be a great antidote to stress and frustration caused by the learning disability.

increases joint movement and increases motor skills providing motivation to move more, stretch farther, and exercise longer

Here at Kidz TherapEZE, we are proud supporters of animal therapy. We often incorporate animal therapy with our patients!  We currently have five therapy dogs at our facility and one that visits here often! Our patients have seen significant improvement and progress. Not to mention, they love spending time with them!

 Our dogs are trained by Bocalan Texas which provide animal assisted interventions, training and placing Autism Assistance Dogs, and educating healthcare professionals as to the benefits of AAI. A lot of the dogs are adopted from shelters! Our very own Occupational Therapist Tammy Renaud, OTR, is a trainer, doggie mommy, and also fosters them! She does an amazing job!

Check with your doctor, specialist, or therapist to see how animal therapy can benefit you or your child! :)

Cheif, Simba, Lexi

*Sources: http://www.pawsforpeople.org/who-we-are/benefits-of-pet-therapy/

*Bocalan Texas Facebook

*Amy’s promise Facebook