Physical Therapy for Patients with CHDs

In early childhood, PT can reduce or eliminate the motor delays commonly observed in children with CHDs. The manner of service delivery depends on the needs and circumstances of the child, and may include:

• inpatient PT, which may include

  • passive range of motion (PROM) exercises

  • inspiratory muscle strength training

  • strength building exercises

  • mobility support

  • pain reduction strategies

  • range of motion exercises

  • promotion of developmental motor milestones

• PT through Early Intervention (EI)

• clinic-based outpatient PT

Among children and teens with CHDs, PT can improve strength, coordination, and mobility, and help patients recover from illnesses or injuries.

PT may be able to help kids to more fully engage in daily life through skills such as using stairs, playing on a playground, sitting comfortably at school, and navigating the community.

Children and teens can access PT in multiple ways:

• school services as part of Special Education, as outlined in their individualized education plan (IEP)

• inpatient services

• outpatient clinical services

Among young adults with CHDs, PT can maintain and build physical strength, balance, and coordination, and help prevent deconditioning with age.

PT can also help young adults to recover from illnesses or injuries, and to manage or reduce pain.

Adults can access PT in multiple ways:

• school services as part of Special Education, as outlined in their individualized education plan (IEP) for young adults ages 18-22

• inpatient services

• outpatient clinical services

Medical professionals can refer patients to PT in multiple ways, depending on the specific circumstances. This can include:

• directly referring all inpatients at risk of motor delay or regression to PT

• referring outpatients to a clinic-based PT if they are at risk of motor delays, have lagging motor skills, have lost motor skills, are recovering from illness or injury, or are managing pain

• referring all babies and toddlers to Early Intervention (EI)

• educating parents about PT services through Special Education, and providing appropriate documentation of the child's disabilities and needs

This content was reviewed by staff at Boston Children's Hospital's Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Program.