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Enhancing Mobility with Orthotics and Equipment for Children

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Orthotics and Equipment Assessment for Kids: Supporting Mobility and Participation in Daily Activities

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we understand how important it is for children to actively participate in daily activities, whether playing with friends, engaging in classroom activities, or exploring the world around them. For children who may have difficulty with mobility or need assistance to maintain proper alignment, orthotics, and equipment can make all the difference in their ability to move and thrive. Our skilled physical therapists are here to assess the need for these special tools, helping children achieve their goals and independence.

What Are Orthotics and Equipment?

Orthotics are custom-made braces designed to support or correct joint alignment. For children, these devices can support weak or injured limbs, improve walking patterns, help with mobility, and promote progress towards functional goals. Equipment, on the other hand, may include specialized seating systems, walkers, or other assistive devices that help children participate in activities of daily living.

Why Are Orthotics and Equipment Important?

Orthotics and assistive equipment are essential for children with physical challenges as they help with:

  1. Joint and Trunk Alignment: Children who struggle with maintaining proper posture or alignment may benefit from orthotics that correct these issues and allow them to sit or stand more comfortably and safely.
  2. Mobility: Devices like braces or walkers can support movement and increase a child’s ability to move independently, improving their confidence and participation in everyday activities.
  3. Physical Therapy Goals: Specialized orthotics and equipment can be part of a comprehensive physical therapy plan to help children achieve their physical therapy goals, such as walking, running, or sitting for extended periods.

What to Expect During an Assessment

When you bring your child in for an orthotics and equipment assessment, our experienced physical therapists will work closely with you and your child to understand their needs. We’ll assess the child’s current level of mobility, any physical challenges they are facing, and overall physical development. Based on this assessment, we’ll determine the appropriate equipment or bracing to meet your child’s specific needs.

We also recommend local vendors who can provide custom orthotics and equipment, including options like Turtlebracing. Turtlebracing is an innovative system that uses re-modifiable material to create braces tailored to a child’s unique needs for both upper and lower extremities.

What Is Turtlebracing?

Turtlebracing is a cutting-edge bracing system that uses flexible materials to create comfortable and adaptable braces. These braces can be adjusted as a child’s needs change, providing continued support as they grow. Turtlebracing is an excellent option for children requiring a custom approach to their orthotics or equipment. Our therapists are trained to remold and fit these braces in-house. 

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we are dedicated to helping children achieve their mobility and physical therapy goals through orthotics and specialized equipment. Our physical therapists will work with you to assess your child’s needs and offer solutions that support their development, independence, and active participation in daily life. In addition to providing in-house solutions like Turtlebracing, we can connect you with trusted local vendors to find the right equipment for your child. If you want to learn more about orthotics and specialized equipment and how we incorporate this approach into therapy, including intensives, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an evaluation. You can also use this link to explore our pediatric intensive therapy services.

 

Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training: Helping Kids Walk with Confidence

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Improving Mobility with Body Weight Support Treadmill Training for Children

Walking is a fundamental skill that plays an essential role in a child’s ability to explore the world around them and engage in everyday activities. For some children, however, walking may be challenging due to conditions such as cerebral palsy, brain and spinal cord injuries, developmental delays, and musculoskeletal conditions. This is where Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training (BWSTT) can make a significant difference.

What is Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training?

Body-weight support Treadmill/Gait Training utilizes a specialized treadmill system designed to support a portion of a child’s body weight as they practice walking. As the child walks on the treadmill, they are supported by a harness or a body-weight reduction system that gradually decreases as they gain strength, balance, and coordination. The overall goal is to promote improved mobility and functional walking patterns. 

How Does BWSTT Help?

BWSTT offers several key benefits for children, including:

  • Strength and Endurance: By practicing walking on the treadmill, children build the muscles needed for independent movement. This also improves their overall endurance, allowing them to walk for longer periods without fatigue.
  • Coordination: Walking requires coordination between the legs and upper body, and BWSTT helps children develop these skills. Over time, the child becomes better at coordinating their movements and maintaining a natural gait.
  • Balance: One of the biggest challenges for children with walking impairments is maintaining balance. BWSTT allows children to practice walking in a controlled and safe environment while the therapist provides hands-on support to assist with balance and stability.
  • Promotes Independent Walking: As the child progresses through therapy, the amount of body weight support is gradually reduced, enabling them to work toward independent walking.

Who Can Benefit from BWSTT?

A multitude of diagnoses can benefit from BWSTT, including: 

  • Cerebral Palsy: Children with cerebral palsy often struggle with muscle control and coordination. BWSTT can help improve their gait and strength, leading to better mobility and independence.
  • Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries: Some children who have sustained brain or spinal cord injuries can benefit from BWSTT to regain strength and improve their walking ability.
  • Developmental Delays: Children with developmental delays may not develop typical walking patterns as expected. BWSTT helps them practice walking while building strength and balance.
  • Musculoskeletal Conditions: Conditions that affect the muscles and bones, such as joint disorders or muscle weakness, can be improved through gait training, focusing on strengthening, repetition, and building endurance. 

The Role of the Therapist

While the child walks on the treadmill, a therapist provides hands-on guidance and support, ensuring the child is practicing proper walking patterns. The therapist can adjust the body weight support system and provide real-time feedback to help the child improve their walking pattern. As the child progresses, the therapist will reduce the support they provide, allowing the child to walk more independently over time.

Why BWSTT Works

BWSTT works by allowing the natural walking process while providing support and assistance. This enables children to practice walking at a pace and intensity that suits their abilities, helping them build confidence and the physical skills necessary to walk independently.

Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we understand the importance of walking and mobility for children’s development. Our team of skilled pediatric therapists utilizes Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training to help children improve their walking skills, strength, and coordination. We offer personalized therapy plans that focus on each child’s needs and abilities, ensuring they get the most out of their sessions.

If your child struggles with walking due to neurological impairments, developmental delays, or musculoskeletal conditions, our team is here to help. If you want to learn more about Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training and how we incorporate this approach into therapy, including intensives, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to schedule an evaluation. You can also use this link to explore our pediatric intensive therapy services.

 

Total Motion Release (TMR) for Kids: A Gentle Approach to Healing and Movement

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Enhancing Children’s Movement and Posture with Total Motion Release (TMR)

When it comes to helping children improve their movement and posture, Total Motion Release (TMR) is an innovative technique that can make a significant difference. Designed to reduce tightness or restrictions in the body and improve overall alignment, TMR works by using simple, gentle movements to help children feel better, move more freely, and regain their balance.

What is Total Motion Release (TMR)?

Total Motion Release (TMR) is a specialized therapy technique focused on promoting healing through ease rather than forcing movement. The approach works by utilizing specific movement patterns that are easy for the child to perform. These natural movements are applied to the tight or restricted areas of the body—such as the trunk and limbs—to increase flexibility, reduce discomfort, and restore more symmetrical movement patterns.

TMR is all about helping the child’s development by restoring symmetry of movement and improving motor control into full range of motion. By targeting both the extremities (arms, legs) and the trunk, TMR assists in balancing muscle activation and restoring proper alignment. This results in improved posture, better coordination, and progression in gross motor skills.

How Does TMR Help Kids?

Children who struggle with tight muscles, limited movement, or discomfort due to conditions like cerebral palsy, orthopedic issues or developmental delays can greatly benefit from TMR. It can also be helpful for infants dealing with torticollis or idiopathic postural asymmetry resulting in tightness from positioning in-utero or in the early weeks of life. Here are a few key ways that TMR can help:

  1. Reducing Tightness in Muscles and Joints: Children who experience stiffness or tightness in their muscles or joints can find relief through TMR. The gentle movements help release tension and promote greater flexibility, allowing for more comfortable and efficient movement.
  2. Improving Posture and Alignment: TMR helps improve the alignment of a child’s body, which can have a lasting effect on their posture. This is particularly beneficial for children who may appear to lean or slouch due to tight muscles or joint restrictions.
  3. Restoring Symmetrical Movement: By targeting both sides of the body, TMR encourages symmetrical movement patterns, ensuring that children can use both sides of their body in a balanced way. This is especially important for kids with developmental delays or conditions like cerebral palsy, which may affect how they move.
  4. Encouraging Motor Skill Development: For children with developmental delays, TMR can play an important role in developing fundamental motor skills. By helping kids move with more ease and control, they can build strength, coordination, and confidence as they grow.

Who Can Benefit from TMR?

TMR is suitable for children of all ages, from infants to adolescents. It can be especially beneficial for children with conditions such as:

  • Cerebral Palsy: Children with cerebral palsy often face challenges with muscle tone, coordination, and movement. TMR can help improve their posture and mobility by addressing tight muscles and promoting symmetrical movement.
  • Orthopedic Conditions: Kids with orthopedic conditions such as scoliosis, joint stiffness, or muscle imbalances can benefit from TMR’s gentle approach to releasing tightness and improving posture.
  • Torticollis: Infants with torticollis, which causes one side of the neck to tighten, may struggle with turning their head or maintaining proper alignment. TMR can help relieve tightness in the neck muscles and improve range of motion throughout the body.
  • Developmental Delays: For children with developmental delays, TMR can provide the support they need to develop motor skills and better coordination.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we understand the unique needs of children and provide tailored care that helps them thrive. Our skilled therapists are trained in Total Motion Release techniques and can work with your child to reduce tightness, improve movement, and develop the skills they need to move confidently and comfortably.

Whether your child has cerebral palsy, an orthopedic condition, torticollis, or developmental delays, we can help them on their journey toward improved movement and quality of life. If you’re interested in learning more about Total Motion Release and how we incorporate this approach into therapy, including intensives, please contact us to schedule an evaluation. You can also use this link to explore our pediatric intensive therapy services.

 

Exploring the Benefits of Kinesiology Taping

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Understanding Kinesiology Taping: Benefits, Applications, and How It Works

Kinesiology taping is a revolutionary, non-invasive therapy that has gained widespread popularity recently. This therapeutic technique uses specially designed elastic tape applied to the skin in strategic patterns to promote healing, support joint stability and alignment, reduce pain, and enhance muscle function. This blog will explore the science behind kinesiology taping, its benefits, and how it can be applied across diverse populations.

What Is Kinesiology Taping?

Kinesiology taping involves using a flexible, skin-friendly tape that mimics the elasticity of human skin. Unlike rigid medical tapes, kinesiology tape allows for a full range of motion, making it ideal for athletes, children, and individuals recovering from injuries. The tape is applied in specific patterns to:

  • Support Joint Stability and Alignment: By aligning muscles and joints, kinesiology taping helps reduce the risk of injury and supports the body’s natural movement.
  • Reduce Pain: The tape can help relieve pressure on joints, improve blood flow, reduce inflammation, and improve comfort and function.
  • Improve Muscle Activation: Kinesio taping promotes muscle activation, improving coordination, strength, and posture.

Benefits of Kinesiology Taping

Kinesiology taping offers a variety of benefits for individuals of all ages and abilities, including:

  1. Pain Relief: By improving blood flow, decreasing inflammation, and activating sensory receptors in the skin, the tape can alleviate discomfort without restricting movement.
  2. Improved Posture and Balance: Taping can serve as a physical cue to encourage better alignment and posture.
  3. Enhanced Motor Learning: Kinesiology taping can aid motor learning in children and adults with developmental or neurological challenges by providing tactile feedback to guide movement.
  4. Faster Recovery: The tape supports the body’s natural healing processes by improving blood flow and reducing swelling.
  5. Versatile Applications: Kinesiology taping can be used for sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, chronic pain, and even conditions like scoliosis or cerebral palsy.

How Kinesiology Taping Works

The tape’s elasticity gently lifts the skin, creating space between the skin and underlying tissues. The various patterns can also activate underlying muscles/muscle groups. This helps to:

  • Reduce inflammation by improving lymphatic drainage.
  • Activate sensory receptors to relieve pain and improve proprioception (the body’s sense of position and movement).
  • Stabilize joints and muscles, allowing for improved function without limiting activity.

Applications Across Different Populations

Kinesiology taping is a gentle therapy suitable for many populations, including:

  • Athletes: To prevent injuries, improve performance, and aid recovery.
  • Children and Infants: For developmental support, posture correction, and motor skill enhancement.
  • Post-Surgical Patients: To reduce swelling and promote healing.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, our skilled therapists are trained in kinesiology taping and its application across various age groups and conditions. Whether you or your child are dealing with pain, developmental delays, or movement challenges, our team can design a customized therapy plan incorporating this innovative technique. If you’re interested in learning more about Kinesiology Taping and how we incorporate this approach into therapy, including intensives, please feel free to reach out to us to schedule an evaluation. You can also use this link to explore more about our pediatric intensive therapy services.

 

Unlocking Potential with NMES and TASES: Advanced Techniques for Pediatric Therapy

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Enhancing Pediatric Therapy: Exploring NMES and TASES for Unlocking Potential

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) and Task-Specific Electrical Stimulation (TASES) are groundbreaking therapeutic techniques that empower children with neurological or muscular impairments to achieve greater strength, function, and mobility. These evidence-based interventions utilize gentle electrical currents to activate muscles, promote sensory input, and encourage functional movement patterns. Here’s a closer look at these innovative therapies and how they can benefit children.

What Are NMES and TASES?

NMES involves the use of controlled electrical currents to stimulate specific muscle groups. This process helps activate muscles, improve strength, and enhance motor coordination, even in children with difficulty voluntarily engaging specific muscles due to underlying conditions.

TASES combines electrical stimulation with task-specific activities. This dual approach focuses on functional movements, like walking, standing, etc., enabling children to practice daily tasks while receiving stimulation that supports motor learning and muscle activation.

Benefits of NMES and TASES

Both therapies are highly adaptable and can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each child. Some of the key benefits include:

  1. Promoting Muscle Activation: Electrical stimulation helps activate muscles that may otherwise be difficult to engage, laying the foundation for improved strength and function.
  2. Enhancing Strength and Endurance: Regular use can lead to significant gains in muscle strength, making everyday activities more straightforward and less tiring for children.
  3. Improving Gait and Mobility: By promoting proper movement patterns and coordination, NMES and TASES can help children achieve a more natural gait and greater mobility independence.
  4. Encouraging Functional Movement Patterns: Task-specific stimulation helps reinforce the neural pathways necessary for daily tasks like grasping, walking, or balancing.
  5. Providing Sensory Input: Electrical stimulation also offers valuable sensory feedback, which can enhance motor learning and awareness.

Who Can Benefit from NMES and TASES?

Children with the following conditions often experience significant improvements with NMES and TASES:

  • Cerebral palsy
  • Brain and spinal cord injuries
  • Developmental delays
  • Neuromuscular disorders
  • Post-surgical recovery requiring targeted muscle activation

These therapies are frequently incorporated into comprehensive treatment plans, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

How NMES and TASES Work in Therapy

Small electrodes are placed on the skin over targeted muscle groups during therapy sessions. Gentle electrical currents are delivered through the electrodes, causing the muscles to contract. In TASES, this stimulation is integrated with functional tasks, such as reaching for an object or taking a step. A trained therapist typically guides sessions, ensuring safety, effectiveness, and alignment with the child’s goals.

How Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we specialize in providing tailored therapies, including NMES and TASES, for children with unique needs. Our highly trained therapists work closely with families to develop personalized treatment plans that support motor skill development, independence, and confidence. If you’re interested in learning more about NMES and TASES and how we incorporate this approach into therapy, including intensives, please feel free to contact us to schedule an evaluation. You can also use this link to explore more about our pediatric intensive therapy services.

 

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

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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!

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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

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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!

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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?

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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