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Exciting News! Carolina Therapy Connection Brings Pediatric Therapy and Mental Health Services to Morehead City

Exciting News: Carolina Therapy Connection Opens New Clinic in Morehead City!

We are thrilled to announce that Carolina Therapy Connection has opened a new clinic in the heart of Carteret County! Located at 4251 Arendell St., Suite E, in Morehead City, this brand-new facility offers a variety of services to meet the needs of both children and adults.

Services We Provide in Morehead City:

At our Morehead City location, we are proud to offer the following services:

We are excited to bring our high-quality therapy services to the Carteret County community and are committed to providing compassionate care for children, adolescents, and adults.

Now Offering Extended Hours for Mental Wellness in Morehead City

We understand how busy life can be, which is why we are now offering extended hours and Saturday appointments for those who need more flexibility. Whether you’re looking for afterschool therapy sessions for your child or evening counseling for yourself, we have immediate openings available to fit your schedule.

Morehead City Clinic Features:

Our Morehead City clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art therapy spaces, including:

 

  • Private treatment rooms for occupational, physical, and speech therapy.

 

  • A fully equipped kitchen area for feeding therapy sessions to help children with eating challenges.

  • Private counseling rooms for mental health sessions, ensuring a comfortable and confidential environment for all ages.

 

Get Started with Carolina Therapy Connection Today!

We are thrilled to be part of the Carteret County community and to offer a welcoming space where families can feel supported on their therapeutic journey. If you’re looking for therapy services in the Morehead City area, we’re here to help!

To schedule an appointment or learn more about our services, contact us today. We’re excited to be part of your community and look forward to serving you!

A Step in The Right Direction: PT-Approved Footwear For Your Kiddos!

Choosing the right footwear for children can be a daunting task for parents, especially when considering the importance of comfort, support, and proper development. As kids grow, their feet undergo significant changes, and the right shoes can help promote healthy foot development, prevent injuries, and enhance overall mobility. Here’s a guide to help you find PT-approved footwear for your little ones.

Why Footwear Matters – Qualities of Good Kids Shoes That PT-Approved

Children’s feet are still developing, making it crucial to provide them with shoes that offer proper support while also allowing room to grow. Poor footwear can lead to a variety of issues, including flat feet, overpronation, and discomfort. Physical therapists often emphasize the following features in kids’ shoes:

  1. Arch Support: Proper mid-foot arch support is essential to promote natural foot development and prevent conditions like flat feet. Look for a shoe that flexes at the toe vs. mid shoe when you bend it.
  2. Flexibility: Shoes should allow for natural movement. A shoe that has a flexible toe/forefoot region enables kids to engage in physical activities without restriction.
  3. Adequate Cushioning: Ample cushioning helps absorb shock during activities, reducing the risk of injuries.
  4. Room for Growth: Kids grow quickly, so it’s important to choose shoes that allow for a little extra room without being too loose. A shoe with a wide toe box allows for extra growth and room for their toes to splay, which helps to provide a wider base of support and improve balance!
  5. Breathability: Shoes made from breathable materials help keep feet dry and comfortable, reducing the risk of blisters and fungal infections.
  6. Adjustable closure: Shoes with adjustable closures can be adjusted for a sung but comfortable fit. This helps provide the ideal support during movement without worrying about their foot sliding around in the shoe. Look for a shoe with velcro or laces/straps that can be adjusted for the perfect fit.
  7. Sturdy/solid heel cup: Shoes that have a sturdy heel cup provide solid support and stability for your little one’s ankles. In addition, they help to promote proper leg alignment while walking, running, and during general play activities! Look for a shoe that when you push on the back of the shoe it doesn’t collapse in. 

Brands that offer PT-approved footwear options:

1. New Balance

New Balance offers a variety of children’s shoes that are known for their excellent arch support and cushioning. Models like the Kids Rave Run v2 are lightweight, have moderate arch support for higher impact activities, and have a wide toe box that give the feet plenty of space!

2. Saucony

Saucony’s Kid’s Cohesion line features good arch support and a breathable upper. They’re designed for running and play, offering stability without sacrificing flexibility.

3. Asics

Asics shoes are known for their GEL cushioning system, which provides excellent shock absorption. The Gel-Contend series is a great choice for everyday wear and sports.

4. Stride Rite

Specializing in children’s footwear, Stride Rite offers shoes that prioritize foot health. Their shoes often feature rounded toes and flexible soles to promote natural foot movement.

5. Pediped

Whether you’re looking for sandals, sneakers, or boots, Pediped provides a variety of shoes that promote healthy foot development. Their Originals, Grip ‘n’ Go, and Flex designs have been officially recognized by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) as being beneficial for children’s growing feet!

6. Cat and Jack and Walmart also have various cost effective options that provide adequate fit and stability. Use the tips above to find shoes that fit these criteria!

More tips for Choosing the Right Shoe

  1. Measure Feet Regularly: Kids’ feet can grow rapidly, so measure them every few months to ensure a proper fit.
  2. Try Shoes on in the Afternoon: Feet can swell throughout the day, so fitting shoes later in the day can ensure a better fit.
  3. Check the Fit: Compressive footwear may cause weakness, deformity, and mobility loss, so you want to ensure there’s about a thumb’s width of space between the end of the shoe and the longest toe. The heel should fit snugly without slipping.
  4. Look for Quality Materials: Choose shoes made from durable and breathable materials, such as leather or mesh, to ensure longevity and comfort.
  5. Involve Your Child: Allowing kids to choose their shoes can make the experience fun, but guide them toward options that meet their physical needs.

***Special Tip for Little Ones: These recommendations are mostly for experienced walkers. If you have a baby who is just starting to learn to stand and walk, barefoot is best so they can gain strength and balance. If a new/early walker needs shoes for daycare or outdoor use, look for a flexible option with a wide toe box that fits securely on the foot (adjustable closure) without sliding off.***

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help? 

Investing in the right shoes for your children is crucial for their foot health and overall well-being. With the recommendations from physical therapists and a focus on supportive, flexible, and well-fitting options, you can help your little ones stay active and comfortable. Remember, the right shoe today can lead to healthier feet tomorrow!

 

Written By: Anna Seguin, PT, DPT

Helping Kids Move Better with Serial Bracing

Carolina Therapy Connection Now Offering Serial Bracing!

Sometimes, kids need a little extra help moving around. That’s where braces come in. Braces are special devices that can support different parts of the body, like hands, ankles, and more. They’re used to help kids get stronger and move better. For children facing mobility challenges due to conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or injuries, the ability to walk and use their hands freely can significantly impact their daily lives. Serial bracing emerges as a crucial intervention in pediatric therapy, offering targeted support to help children walk better and enhance their hand function.

 

Understanding Serial Bracing for Kids

Serial bracing involves the use of specialized orthotic devices/braces designed to provide support and alignment to specific body parts over time. These braces are tailored to meet the individual needs of each child, addressing issues related to walking and hand function. By wearing these braces consistently and undergoing therapy interventions, children can experience improvements in their mobility and functional abilities.

 

Does Your Child Experience…

  • Tight heel cords (toe-walking)?
  • Tightness in the hand, wrist, elbow, or knees?
  • Tight Muscles even after using orthotic braces?

Bracing can help support the hands, wrists, legs, ankles and feet!

 

Supporting Walking with Bracing

For children with conditions affecting their ability to walk, due to increased/decreased tone/range of motion, poor alignment, weakness, or structural abnormalities, serial bracing plays a vital role in promoting stability and proper alignment of the lower limbs. Many people have heard of braces like ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) help support the ankle joint, correct foot alignment, and improve walking patterns. Over time, consistent use of braces combined with physical therapy can lead to improved ankle alignment and range of motion resulting in enhanced balance, coordination, and overall mobility.  Even kids who toe walk can improve their walking patterns and decrease their toe walking through the use of leg braces.

 

Enhancing Hand Function through Bracing

Hand function is essential for children to perform daily activities independently, from writing and drawing to feeding themselves. Serial bracing offers support and alignment for children with conditions impacting hand function, such as cerebral palsy or brachial plexus injuries. Orthotic devices like hand splints or wrist-hand orthoses (WHOs) provide stability while allowing for functional movement. With regular use of these braces and targeted occupational therapy, children can develop better hand control, grip strength, and fine motor skills.

 

The Difference Between Serial Bracing vs. Serial Casting

Serial Bracing is similar to serial casting but is removable and easily custom-molded for the child in the clinic setting. 

Benefits of Serial Bracing:

  • Non-invasive
  • Typically improves range of motion in 4-6 weeks
  • Can be removed by caregivers for skin check, stretching, strengthening, bathing
  • Can easily be remolded in 15-30 minutes per limb at home/clinic without special equipment 
  • Can be worn for all typical daily/nightly routines, including walking, running, sleeping, swimming, or bathing

 

The Turtle Bracing Difference

The turtle brace is a form of casting or splinting. It provides an amazing alternative option as opposed to traditional plaster casting. Braces are available to fit all shapes and sizes, from newborn babies to adults. They offer braces for the wrist and fingers, elbow, and ankle.

The turtle brace is a moldable brace that is heated up and then applied to the treated area, which is fastened with a zipper. Once it is positioned, it begins to harden as the brace cools. Once the brace hardens, it is good to go!  

The nature of the fabric allows it to be reshaped many times without losing its qualities, which is beneficial to making adjustments for children growing, serial casting adjustments, and other requirements. You can get the turtle brace wet – wear the turtle brace in the shower, bath, or the beach, and it will dry!

 

What makes Turtle Braces so amazing?

  • It is lightweight and comfortable.
  • It is waterproof.
  • It provides an easy zipper to assist with the removal.
  • It can be removed if there is a problem, for example, a pressure area, or a child is struggling and needs a break. The brace can be removed without compromising the cast or the treated joint.
  • It is re-moldable with the application of heat and can transform back to its original shape!

 

More from the Turtle Brace manufacturer

*Turtle Brace Website 

 

Customized Care for Optimal Results: I’m Interested in Turtle Bracing, How Do I Get Started?

Each child’s journey with serial bracing is unique, requiring personalized care and attention. Turtle Braces are custom-made to fit the child’s body comfortably and effectively. Moreover, therapy interventions are tailored to address specific goals and challenges, ensuring comprehensive support for walking and hand function. 

  1. If you are a NEW patient of ours and are interested in Turtle Bracing, contact us and mention you would like Turtle Bracing. Our referral coordinator will meet you with one of our certified and trained therapists for an evaluation.  She will also walk you through the insurance process to determine coverage for braces.
  2. If you are a CURRENT patient of ours and are interested in Turtle Bracing, talk with your current therapist about this option! Our referral coordinator will be in touch to walk you through the insurance process to determine coverage for braces.

 

Empowering Children for Success

The benefits of serial bracing extend beyond physical improvements; they empower children to participate more fully in daily activities and social interactions! By gaining greater independence in walking and hand function, children can experience increased confidence and self-esteem. Moreover, improved mobility opens up new opportunities for exploration, learning, and participation in recreational activities.

Through a combination of customized bracing and therapy interventions at Carolina Therapy Connection, children can overcome mobility challenges and achieve greater independence in their daily lives!

 

 

Written By: Cindy Taylor

 

Celebrating Excellence: Our Pediatric Therapy Company Named Best Employers of NC for 2023 and 2024!

We are thrilled to announce that our pediatric therapy company has been recognized as one of the Best Employers of North Carolina for 2023 and 2024 by Business North Carolina! This incredible achievement is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our entire team, and it highlights our commitment to providing exceptional care and services to the children and families in our community.

 

A Commitment to Excellence in Pediatric Therapy

Over the past 14 years, our organization has specialized in a comprehensive range of pediatric therapy services, including occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, mental wellness and counseling, and educational services. We have recently expanded to include services for adults in the past year and a half.  Our multidisciplinary approach ensures that each child receives individualized care tailored to their unique needs, fostering their development and helping them reach their full potential.

 

  • Occupational Therapy: Our skilled occupational therapists help children develop the skills they need for daily living and academic success, focusing on fine motor skills, sensory processing, and more.

 

  • Speech Therapy: Our speech-language pathologists work with children to improve their communication skills, addressing challenges related to speech, language, and social communication.

 

  • Physical Therapy: Our physical therapists are dedicated to enhancing children’s mobility, strength, development, and coordination, enabling them to participate fully in everyday activities.

 

  • Mental Wellness and Counseling: We provide a supportive environment for children and adults to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and improve their mental health and well-being.

 

  • Educational Services: Our educational specialists offer academic testing and tutoring support for children with learning differences, helping them thrive academically.

 

Serving Eastern North Carolina with Dedication and Care

With multiple locations around Eastern North Carolina, our clinic is committed to making our services accessible to families throughout the region. We also have several virtual speech-language pathologists who can serve children across all of North Carolina. We understand the importance of providing high-quality care close to home, and our convenient locations ensure that children and families can receive the support they need without extensive travel.

 

Recognized as a Top Employer

Being named one of the Best Employers of North Carolina for two consecutive years is an honor that reflects our dedication to creating a positive and supportive work environment for our staff. We believe that happy, fulfilled employees are the foundation of excellent patient care. Our team members are passionate about their work and committed to making a difference in the lives of the children and families we serve.

 

The survey conducted by DataJoe for Business North Carolina covered essential workplace topics, including organizational health, leadership, engagement, work-life balance, pay, training, benefits, and corporate social responsibility.

 

Looking to the Future

As we celebrate this achievement, we remain focused on our mission to provide the highest quality pediatric therapy services in Eastern North Carolina. We are continually exploring new ways to enhance our programs, support our staff, and expand our reach to better serve our community.

Thank you to our incredible team, our wonderful patients and families, and everyone who has supported us on this journey. We look forward to continuing to provide exceptional care and to being a part of your child’s growth and development for many years to come!

Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support you and your child’s needs. Together, we can help every child reach their full potential!

 

 

 

https://businessnc.com/topping-the-list-of-north-carolinas-best-employers-2024/

 

What is Toe Walking?

Toe walking means that a child is walking and standing on tiptoes, and their heels do not make contact with the ground. Walking up on their toes can be a normal occurrence in children aged three and under as they continue to develop their ability to walk. Beyond that age, without any definitive medical reason, it is considered idiopathic toe walking (walking on toes without a known cause).

Toe Walking Causes

To understand, what’s not so simple about toe walking is the why behind it. There are many possible reasons that children might develop this pattern:

Developmental phase: A child occasionally walking on the balls of their feet can be part of normal development.  When children first begin walking, usually between 12-15 months of age, they often try different foot positions including walking up on their toes.  However, it is expected that typically developing children will only walk on their toes occasionally.

Neurological concern:

  • Sensory processing concerns: Children with sensory issues, including those on the Autism Spectrum related to the vestibular system, have a different awareness of their body position and feel stabilized during toe walking. The tactile system includes our sense of touch, pain, and temperature. Some studies conclude that children with differences in vestibular processing can also have tactile senses that exacerbate their toe walking. They may not like the feeling of the floor touching their feet, and toe walking minimizes this contact. Children seeking proprioceptive input toe walk because the gait prolongs stimulation of joint receptors and causes their muscles to tighten. The movement provides a calming input sensation for the child. (Williams 2010)
  • Cerebral Palsy: The most common cause of toe walking in those with cerebral palsy is spasticity, which can cause stiffness and involuntary muscle contractions in calf muscles, keeping their heels from touching the ground. Over time, without proper stretching and bracing, these muscles can become shortened, making it challenging to achieve heel contact. 

 

Idiopathic toe walking: Toe walking can occur because of an underlying anatomic or neuromuscular condition, but in most cases, toe walking is idiopathic without a discernible underlying cause. Idiopathic toe walking occurs in children between 3 and 7 years old and is more commonly seen in males than females. Idiopathic toe walking is not related to any specific diagnosis and can presenty of reasons, due to a variet including decreased stability and sensory involvement. For some families, toe walking may be a cosmetic concern, whereas it can cause pain or functional issues in other cases. (Ruzbarsky, Scher, & Dodwell, 2016)

Treatment

You may wonder how to stop toe-walking with your child. Therapeutic treatment depends on the cause, how strong of a habit it is, how tight the calf muscles have become, and what other changes have occurred in the child’s foot and ankle due to walking this way. 

Treatment can include:

  • Stretching: To improve muscle length, increase ankle mobility, and promote heel contact
  • Orthoses: Ankle-foot orthotic worn to keep the foot at a 90-degree angle and promote heel contact
  • *Turtle bracing: New bracing technique utilizing a removable, re-moldable, lightweight brace to achieve optimal ankle positioning, obtain and maintain ankle mobility, and promote heel contact
  • Serial Castings: Hard cast used to obtain and maintain a 90-degree angle at the ankle joint for extended periods (1-2 weeks at a time)
  • Night splints: Braces worn at night to keep the foot in a 90-degree angle and achieve prolonged stretch
  • Botox injections are most commonly used with those dealing with spasticity; they weaken their calf muscles and make them easier to stretch and cast.

A careful history, clinical exam, and selective diagnostic testing can be used to differentiate between different types of toe walking and determine the most appropriate treatment for each child. 

 

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help with Toe Walking?

Being evaluated by a Physical or Occupational Therapist can further help determine which treatment routes are appropriate for your child. Call us today at 252-341-9944 for a free screening! 

 

By: Taylor Saunders

 

Down Syndrome Awareness Month!

October is filled with so many exciting things, the start of fall weather and holidays approaching; but did you know that October is also Down Syndrome Awareness Month? Established for over 40 years, it is a time to recognize and celebrate our friends with Down Syndrome and the amazing abilities they have!

 

What is Down Syndrome?

Down Syndrome is often called Trisomy 21, though there are actually three types: trisomy 21 (nondisjunction) which makes up 95% of cases, translocation (4%), and mosaicism (1%). It occurs in approximately 1 out of every 691 births, and more than 400,000 people are living with Down syndrome in the United States. These individuals are born with an extra copy of the 21st chromosome. They are able to work, go to school, develop meaningful relationships, make their own decisions, and participate in society however they wish! According to the National Down Syndrome Society, “Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends, and the community enable people with Down Syndrome to lead fulfilling and productive lives.”

 

You are welcomed here!

Here at Carolina Therapy Connection, we are honored to serve our families who have children with Down Syndrome! One of our special friends, Hannah Hill, has made tremendous progress in her therapy. Her mother stated, “Because Hannah is very verbal, people often ask me if she has a ‘mild’ case of Down Syndrome. It’s not commonly known that there is no ‘spectrum’ of Down Syndrome! You either have it or you don’t! While the extra chromosome does impact their lives, people with Down Syndrome are unique, and have their own strengths and weaknesses. They have physical features, personality traits, abilities, challenges, interests, successes, and failures just like everyone else!”  

Hannah: Age 8

 

How can therapy help?

  • Speech therapy services provided by a speech-language pathologist reap great benefits. Many children with Down syndrome develop language later than same-age peers. Low muscle tone could also impact the ability to produce speech sounds accurately, and therapy is paramount to helping a child develop the ability to confidently and effectively communicate their thoughts, feelings, wants, and needs. SLPs can provide assistance with prelinguistic and oral-motor skills, as well!
  • Physical therapy can help a child with Down Syndrome starting at a young age to increase strength and gross motor development. From rolling and sitting, to developing an efficient walking pattern, and even participating in sports, physical therapy can make a huge difference in a child’s life. In a physical therapy session, our PT’s will focus on things such as: gross and fine motor development, balance, coordination, and age-appropriate daily living skills. 
  • Occupational therapy can assist people with Down Syndrome in learning to complete many everyday tasks. Occupational therapy will provide support specifically in three areas, motor, cognitive, and sensory integration. Specifically, an occupational therapy session may include activities that promote self-care, fine motor, play, and social skills!

 

A Total Communication Approach 

Many parents are excited to begin therapy and learn ways to promote and enhance communication for their children. According to our colleagues at the Boston Children’s Hospital Down Syndrome Program, a Total Communication Approach can be beneficial! The Total Communication Approach means using any functional means of communication; this could include: verbal speech, ASL, gestures, pictures, and/or simple or high-tech communication devices. Many children with Down syndrome are visual processors, and the goal of Total Communication is multi-sensory (i.e., visual, auditory, tactile, etc.) in order to encourage any form of expression. What are some ways to facilitate this approach at home?

  • Visual input: Pointing to objects and pictures that you are naming or describing. 
  • Use sign language for basic words (eat, want, bath, play, etc.). Research shows using signs increases understanding and offers an additional method for communication. 
  • Incorporate music into pretend play.
  • Joint book reading. Follow your child’s lead!

 

How can Carolina Therapy Connection help?

Children with Down Syndrome often benefit from therapy from skilled professionals, including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and physical therapists. At Carolina Therapy Connection, our treatment is highly individualized to your child’s needs. A standardized assessment will be administered to detect any delays, and our therapists will work with you and your child to develop a plan for enhancing skills to  build confidence across all social environments (home, school, social groups, etc). If you have any concerns or questions regarding your child’s development, call our clinic at (252) 341-9944.

By Ashley Holloway, MS, CCC-SLP, CAS

The Vestibular System in Pediatrics

What is the Vestibular System?

Vesti-what?!? The vestibular system is made up of the inner ear, vestibulocochlear nerve that communicates between the inner ear and brain, parts of the brainstem, and cortical areas in the brain. The vestibular system responds to head movements like when you nod your head “yes”, shake your head “no”, or tip your head to shake the water out of your ears. It also responds to movements like when you move forward or backwards when you’re sledding, move up and down like when you’re jumping, or when you spin around in circles. Overall the vestibular system helps you figure out where you are in space as you move around your environment so that you can… 

  • Maintain your gaze on a target while moving your head (vestibulo-ocular reflex)
  • Maintain postural control or balance
  • Orient yourself to your environment
  • React appropriately to your surroundings
  • Avoid falls

Check out this helpful resource from Integrated Learning Strategies, who breaks down the vestibular system as an internal GPS system for the body!

Vestibular Therapy Carolina Therapy Connection

What is vestibular dysfunction?

Vestibular dysfunction may be attributed to deficits or impairments of the inner ear, vestibulocochlear nerve, brain, or brainstem. As adults we may notice difficulties with our vestibular system due to symptoms like dizziness, vertigo, trouble keeping objects in focus while moving our head, or changes in our balance. Children who have vestibular concerns may not realize that they are dizzy or that movement of letters when reading is atypical if they have always experienced these symptoms. This can make diagnosing vestibular concerns hard and can often times be mistaken for other issues (learning disabilities, behavior problems etc.) due to a child’s inability to explain the symptoms they are experiencing.

Migraines, Benign Paroxysmal Vertigo of Childhood (BPVC), and Traumatic Brain Injuries are the most common causes of childhood vertigo. Ocular disorders, inner ear malformations, labyrinthitis (inflammation of the inner ear), and neuritis (inflammation of the vestibulocochlear nerve) are also common causes.

As a parent, here are a few signs and symptoms to watch for regarding vestibular dysfunction:

  • Head tilted to the side
  • Easily stressed, anxious, or upset with quick changes in movement or being on unstable, uneven, or taller surfaces
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Imbalance or frequent falls
  • Vertigo or dizziness
  • Reduced cognitive performance
  • Decreased consciousness or arousal
  • Poor spatial awareness, navigation, or orientation
  • Ringing in ears
  • Spontaneous and involuntary eye movements
  • Motion/car sickness
  • Constant need for movement or taking unsafe risks for various positional changes or movement patterns

What should you do if your child is experiencing vestibular dysfuntion?

First and foremost, consult your child’s pediatrician to discuss your concerns. You may be referred to a neurologist for further evaluation and recommendations. If your child’s pediatrician or neurologist determines that your child would benefit from Physical or Occupational Therapy treatment, your child may be referred for an initial OT and/or PT evaluation.

How can a pediatric occupational therapist or physical therapist help with vestibular concerns?

  • During the initial evaluation your therapist may…
    • Assess how your child’s eye move in a variety of situations
    • Screen for abnormal eye movements
    • Assess your child’s visual acuity
    • Test your child’s balance while static or standing still, as well as their dynamic balance while on a variety of surfaces, while they are moving, or while they are performing a task
    • Assess how your child responds to various positional changes and movement patterns
    • Assess for seeking or avoidance behaviors of various positional changes or movements
  • During treatment your therapist may…
    • Use balance beams, obstacle courses, balance boards, single leg stance activities, etc. to challenge and improve your child’s balance.
    • Use stair training, climbing a rockwall or ladder, standing on a platform swing, etc. to address gravitational sensitivities and challenge balance at various heights.
    • Use swinging, spinning, rolling in a foam cylinder, sliding down slide, riding on a scooter board, etc. to help strengthen your child’s vestibular system. These activities will also potentially help delay the onset or reduce the severity of your child’s dizziness.
    • Use specific activities involving movement of their eyes and head to strengthen their vestibular system.

If you have concerns about your child’s vestibular function, motor development, sensory difficulties or anything else, call Carolina Therapy Connection at 252-341-9944 or email us at info@carolinatherapyconnection.com to get started today! We accept all major insurances and would love to help your family and kiddo maximize their independence and potential to grow healthy and strong!

Blog Written By: Joann Flaherty, PT, DPT and Jessica Reynalds OTD, OTR/L

References:

  • Casselbrant ML, Villardo RJ, Mandel EM. Balance and otitis media with effusion. Int J Audiol. 2008;47(9):584-589.
  • Christy, J., Beam, M., Mueller, G., & Rine, R. (2019). Just Screen It!! (Part 2): Developmental Disability, Vestibular Deficit, or Both?. Presentation, APTA Combined Sections Meeting.
  • Christy, J., & Rine, R. (2019). Just Screen It!! (Part 1): Developmental Disability, Vestibular Deficit, or Both?. Presentation, APTA Combined Sections Meeting.
  • Lin, C. (2019). Vestibular Rehabilitation Intervention. Presentation, East Carolina University.
  • Salami, A., Dellepiane, M., Mora, R., Taborelli, G., & Jankowska, B. (2006). Electronystagmography finding in children with peripheral and central vestibular disorders.International Journal of Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology, 70(1), 13-18. doi:10.1016/j.ijporl.2005.05.001
  • Wiener-Vacher, S. R. (2008). Vestibular disorders in children. International Journal of Audiology, 47(9), 578-583. doi:10.1080/14992020802334358
Pediatric Vestibular Therapy Greenville, NC Carolina Therapy Connection

Helping Your Child Learn to Walk

Concerns About Your Child’s Ability to Walk

Are you concerned that your child hasn’t started walking yet? Development and achievement of motor milestones happens at a pace unique to each child. However, if your child has not yet started walking independently by 18 months it may be time to reach out to your local Physical Therapist for an evaluation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) acknowledges that these walking-related physical milestones are typically met by age 1:

  • pulling up to stand
  • walking while holding on to furniture
  • may be taking a few independent steps
  • standing holding on and may stand alone

Delayed walking can occur for a variety of reasons – core weakness, lower extremity weakness, vestibular dysfunction, gravitational sensitivities, impairments in the motor plan or coordination for walking, and balance deficits to name a few. During a Physical Therapy evaluation we will assess your child’s strength, movement of their extremities and trunk, and balance. We will also screen for any neurological and vestibular concerns, as well as keep an eye out for any sensory involvement or gravitational sensitivities.

How can you begin helping your child learn to walk?

Here are some activity ideas that may be used by your Physical Therapist and that you can try at home to jump start those unsupported steps and help your child walk:

    1. Activities to promote weight shifting between lower extremities, as well as single leg stance balance needed for unsupported walking. Cruising laterally (side to side), across corners, around corners, and pivoting between surfaces. This can be done at a horizontal surface (i.e. coffee table or couch) or a vertical surface (wall, window, mirror, etc.). As your child masters pivoting between two surfaces, increase the distance between the surfaces to promote unsupported standing and stepping to reach the other side.
    2. While standing supported at the couch, coffee table, wall, window, etc. offload one of your child’s lower extremities. You can prop their foot on a pillow, stool, etc. or simply hold their foot up off the ground. As your child masters this while standing supported, try while they are standing unsupported and interacting with a toy with both hands. Shift their weight over one leg while stabilizing their knee on that side. Lift their other leg to prop on a stool, pillow, your leg, or simply hold their foot off the ground.
    3. Supported walking for increased duration and distance. You can start by having your child walk while holding your hands. Progress them from holding 2 hands to just holding 1 hand. Move from holding hands up, overhead to holding hands, forearms, or elbows at shoulder height. They can also engage in supportive walking using a walker/push-toy. Note: Always provide supervision when having your child use a push walker/toy. It is recommended to only use push toys and NOT a walker that your baby has to be physically placed inside of. 
    4. Walking while standing in a small hula hoop/ring to promote reduced support and more variable support. Have your child hold on to the ring with both hands while you support the front or back of the ring. As they master this, wean away your support.
    5. Walking while holding a toy (ring, action figure, etc.) to promote walking with less support and eventually no support. Walk with your child while holding the toy together. As your child’s confidence increases, wean away your hold on the toy to promote walking with less support.
    6. Supported walking with a rubber band or hair tie to promote walking with more variable support. If your child will maintain a grasp on a rubber band or hair tie, try walking with them while holding the rubber band or hair tie together.
    7. Supported walking (hand hold or upper extremity support on a wall) while stepping over uneven surfaces (i.e. a pillow of blankets, couch cushions, pillows, etc.).
    8. Initiating unsupported stepping. Situate your child in standing with their back against the wall. Stand in front of your child and hold out an incentivizing toy, food, etc. to promote weight shift forward away from the wall, transition into unsupported standing, and progression to unsupported steps forward to reach you.

How can Carolina Therapy Connection help your child learn to walk?

Pediatric physical therapy promotes independence, increases participation, facilitates motor development and function, improves strength and endurance, enhances learning opportunities, and eases challenges with daily caregiving. When developmental progress is brought into question, it can be difficult for a parent. We know there is nothing as stressful as seeing other children advance quicker than your child, leaving them left behind as they develop at a slower pace than expected. It is important to understand that slower does not mean never! In fact, there are many late walkers who are able to overcome the delay and catch up with other children their age without concern.

If you have concerns about your child’s ability to walk, motor development or anything else, call Carolina Therapy Connection at 252-341-9944 or email us at info@carolinatherapyconnection.com to get started today! We accept all major insurances and would love to help your family and kiddo maximize their independence and potential to grow healthy and strong!

Blog Written By: Joann Flaherty, PT, DPT

Joann Carolina Therapy Connection Blog Greenville NC

Helping your child learn to walk Carolina Therapy Connection Greenville and New Bern NC

All About Physical Therapy

National Physical Therapy Month

October is National Physical Therapy Month — a time to celebrate the profession and all the ways physical therapists promote independence, increase participation, facilitate motor development and function, improve strength and endurance, enhance learning opportunities, and ease daily challenges in the lives of their patients. This month we would like to shout out our awesome physical therapists and give thanks to each them for their hard work to help kiddos and families across Eastern North Carolina. Learn more about our physical therapists by visiting our team page for Greenville HERE and for New Bern HERE.

What is physical therapy?

Physical therapy is the science of movement, how our muscles move our body, and how abnormal muscle activity may lead to movement disorders or developmental delays, birth defect, chronic illness or an injury. Pediatric physical therapy promotes independence, increases participation, facilitates motor development and function, improves strength and endurance, enhances learning opportunities, and eases challenges with daily caregiving.

We offer Physical Therapy services to children birth through adolescence, with a wide variety of needs and diagnoses:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Asperger’s Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)
  • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD & ADHD)
  • Sensory Processing Disorder
  • Torticollis
  • Developmental Delay
  • Downs Syndrome
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Neuromuscular Disorders

Children with neurological, orthopedic, or developmental disorders may need assistance of special equipment, customized orthotics, and/or exercises to build up motor skills.

Our team of physical therapists provide screening, assessment, consultation, and treatment in the following areas:

  • Gross and Fine Motor Development
  • Early Intervention Services
  • Balance and Coordination Skills
  • Age-Appropriate Daily Living Skills/ Self-Help Skills
  • Adaptive Equipment Purchasing and Modification
  • Wheelchair Assessments
  • Evaluations for Orthotic Devices and Equipment (AFO’s, Helmet, etc.)

In addition to the services above, we are so excited to announce that we are now offering physical therapy services at our Greenville and New Bern clinics for back pain and sports injuries!

PT for Sports Injuries

At Carolina Therapy Connection, our team of physical therapists can help your child overcome a sports injury by promoting independence, facilitating motor development and function, improving strength and endurance, and easing challenges with daily activities. We offer PT services to children ages 4 to 14 who have experienced a sports injury. We use our extensive clinical knowledge and therapeutic understanding to deliver evidence-based and innovative therapeutic interventions. Our physical therapists will work with your child to:

  • Provide an individualized treatment plan
  • Promote an efficient healing process
  • Decrease pain and inflammation
  • Regain strength and range of motion
  • Reduce recovery time for return to sport
  • Prevent future injuries

Common Sports Injuries:

  • Sprained Ankles
  • Knee Pain
  • Shin Splints
  • Foot Pain
  • Elbow Pain
  • Shoulder Pain
  • Achilles Tendonitis

Treatment we provide:

  • Tissue healing
  • Stretching and mobility exercises
  • Stability and control of movement
  • Exercises focusing on proper movement patterns
  • Sport specific performance improvement
  • Advanced agility and coordination exercises

PT for Back Pain

At Carolina Therapy Connection, our team of physical therapists can help your child overcome back pain by promoting independence, facilitating motor development and function, improving strength and endurance, and easing challenges with daily actvities. We offer PT to children ages 4 to 14 years old who are experiencing back pain. We use our extensive clinical knowledge and therapeutic understanding to deliver evidence-based and innovative therapeutic interventions. Our physical therapists will work with your child to:

  • Provide a comprehensive evaluation to assess the causes of back pain
  • Decrease pain and inflammation
  • Build muscle strength in the core
  • Restore mobility and range of motion
  • Improve posture
  • Restore their quality of life
  • Reduce the risk for further injury

Common causes of back pain:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Increased flexibility of the spine
  • Decreased flexibility leg muscles
  • Poor posture
  • Muscle strain
  • Scoliosis
  • Heavy backpacks

Treatment we provide:

  • Tissue healing
  • Stretching and mobility exercises
  • Exercises focusing on proper movement patterns
  • Tips and exercises for improved posture

If you are interested in scheduling a physical therapy evaluation for your child, call our office to get started today!

Greenville office: (252) 341-9944

New Bern office: (252) 341-9944 (EXT. 2)

Goldsboro office: (252) 814-8044

Our office staff will take all of your health insurance information and complete any authorizations or referrals that you may need. Visit our referrals page for more information HERE. Happy Physical Therapy Month

physical therapy Greenville New Bern NC Carolina Therapy Connection

Making “Sense” of Our Experiences

The Pyramid of Learning

Pyramid Of Learning

The Pyramid of Learning was developed by Occupational Therapist Kathleen Taylor and Special Educator Maryann Trott. The Pyramid of Learning is an easy-to-understand illustration that depicts a general idea of a child’s foundational skills, and what other skills build upon those. Think about it: You can’t place stones on the top until the foundation stones are in place… every block relies on the ones underneath to be strong and stable. This pyramid explains why the sensory systems are so incredibly important to support academic learning. In other words, kids NEED routine sensory input for their bodies and their brain! Our central nervous system processes and organizes the sensory information we put into it each day. Adequate sensorimotor development for things like motor planning, postural security and body awareness are built on adequate modulation and processing of sensory information that we take in every day! Sensory input can be anything such as, smells, tastes, sounds, movements, pressure, and textures.

When a child is referred to occupational therapy, it is usually for things like attention to task, handwriting difficulties, picky eating, self-care tasks, tolerating routine changes, or school readiness skills. These functional difficulties are in the “Cognition and Intellect” categories at the top of the learning pyramid. The role of an occupational therapist is to determine underlying causes of these issues and utilize specific interventions to address them. Often times, it is hard for parents to fully understand why their child is not performing at the level at which they would like them to be. Some parents may see their child become frustrated when they are trying their best to be compliant, listen and learn, but their sensory processing abilities are hindering them. These frustrations root from the child working throughout the day just to do the simple things, the things that should be automatic and unconscious for them. This may include things like listening to the teacher, keeping their balance on the stairs, standing close to their friends in line, trying a new snack, or engaging in messy play. It all begins at the bottom of the pyramid!

Understanding Our Sensory Systems

  • Proprioception is our ability to sense the location, positioning, and movements of our body and its limbs. It allows us to navigate a crowded area without bumping into people and furniture in our path.
  • Vestibular sensation is housed in our inner ears and uses gravity to sense spatial orientation and movement. This system is responsible for maintaining balance during movement. If you or child is a victim of motion sickness, you have the vestibular system to blame!
  • Tactile sensation comes from receptors in our skin found all over the body. Tactile sensation includes sensations of pain, temperature, pressure, and textures.
  • Gustatory includes specific tastes (spicy, sweet, minty, bitter) and specific textures (crunchy, chewy, mushy). Taste also involves knowing the difference between food items and non-food items.
  • Olfactory or smells involve the ability to distinguish, detect, tolerate and object certain scents.
  • Visual includes noticing and tolerating visual patterns, colors, shapes, bright and dimmed lights and moving objects.
  • Auditory involves the ability to distinguish and tolerate loud sounds (fire alarms, sirens or loud music) and soft sounds (finger snapping, repetitive tapping, hearing others breathing).

How Sensory Processing Difficulties Affect Behavior

As a parent, it can be difficult when our children are having difficulty with negative behaviors. Let’s say that you receive a call from your child’s school reporting that they often seem distracted and don’t pay attention in class, bump into kids in the lunch line, can’t hold a pencil correctly, become upset when asked to switch from one activity to another, or melt down during circle time. Although these seem like behaviors that are caused by the child seeking attention or not getting their way, sometimes it can root from difficulty with sensory input. It is important for parents to work with an occupational therapist in determining the root of the problem. Sensory integration therapy or a sensory diet may be the key to diminishing these behaviors. Sometimes, just some simple routine changes can allow the child to regulate themselves. Regardless, it is important to have an occupational therapist on your team to help make those adjustments.

Sensory Integration

Sensory integration refers to how your body recognizes, processes, and responds to information received by our sensory systems on an individual and combined level. This includes our traditional 5 senses, sight, touch, taste, smell, and hearing; however, we also have proprioceptive and vestibular sensory systems. Occupational therapists use sensory integration therapy by exposing a child to sensory stimulation in a structured and organized way. The goal of sensory integration therapy is to adapt the child’s brain and nervous system to process sensory information more efficiently. The OT may use a sensory gym to engage the child in these repetitive and stimulating activities.

Sensory Integration Strategies 

  • Messy play – mud, dirt, water, food play, finger paints, shaving cream, bath bubbles, etc.
  • Noise cancelling headphones or ear plugs
  • Window shades or adjustable lights
  • Include your child in meal preparation process – encourage them to help whether with their hands or using cooking utensils to interact with the many food textures and smells
  • Food play – Encourage your child to interact with new foods in the most basic manner; the SOS Feeding Approach, used commonly by Occupational Therapists, encourages the following progression with new foods: See –> Touch –> Kiss –> Lick –> Taste –> Chew & Swallow. It is important to allow your child to move at their own pace and allow them to clean off hands or spit out food at any point along the continuum.
  • Sensory toys – check out Ark Therapeutic, a leading manufacturer of innovative therapy tools and special needs products! They have great sensory toys, chews and fidgets that can help your child deal with sensory overload.
  • Finger painting – also try bathtub paint to reduce mess and give child control over cleaning off their hands
  • Listening to music
  • Having a clear visual schedule posted with plenty of preparation for transitions.
  • Providing sensory breaks such as walking in circles, jumping on a mini-trampoline and sucking on sour candy.
  • For the child who needs to move a bit, you might try an inflated seated cushion or a pillow from home so they can both squirm and stay in their seat.

How can Carolina Therapy Connection help?

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we offer Sensory Integration Therapy and play-based treatment intervention that is specifically designed to stimulate and challenge all of the senses. Sensory Integration involves specific sensory activities (swinging, bouncing, brushing, and more) that are intended to help your child regulate his or her response to incoming sensory input. The outcome of these activities may be better focus and attention, improved behavior, and even lowered anxiety. Our therapists may work on  lowering a patient’s negative reactions to touch, help them become better aware of their body in space, and work on their ability to manage their bodies more appropriately (run and jump when it’s time to run and jump, sit and focus when it’s time to sit and focus, etc.). Various techniques include swinging, deep pressure therapy, which may include squeezing, rolling, etc., jumping on a trampoline, or gross motor play such as wall climbing, balance beam, etc.

Carolina Therapy Connection now has the largest and most state-of-the-art sensory gym in all of Eastern North Carolina!  Check out our 360° view of our sensory gym HERE. Our sensory gym is fully equipped with a zip-line, monkey bars, slides, scooter board ramps, ball pit, trampolines, rock climbing wall, and an expansive set of swings to offer a wide-variety of sensory experiences for each child.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a screening for your child, call our clinic at (252) 341-9944 to learn more about what you can do and how we can help!

 

References:

Pyramid of Learning by Taylor and Trott (1991)

Amy Hathaway, OTR/L DEVELOP, LEARN, GROW

Kids First Children’s Services 

Sensory Blog