Pediatric Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Physiatry)

Expert Physical Medicine Rehabilitation Services for Children in New Jersey

When your child isn’t reaching developmental milestones or needs help with their functional abilities, the health care journey can get complex. You might have to take them to see multiple specialists from a wide range of areas, such as physical, occupational or speech therapy, neurology, genetics, and more. 

A physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) specialist (also called a physiatrist) serves as the medical home for a child with developmental delays or functional issues. Think of them as the quarterback on a team of different specialists — they plan the next steps and pass the “ball” to other team members when needed. 

A physiatrist provides comprehensive care by diagnosing underlying issues, creating personalized treatment plans, and coordinating with various specialists. The goal: make sure each child gets the best support possible for their overall growth and well-being.

From cerebral palsy and nerve and muscle diseases to genetic disorders, motor delays, and concussions — PM&R doctors specialize in treating a range of diagnoses. 

Treatment for these conditions may include:

• Referrals to physical and occupational therapy to improve motor skills
• Prescriptions for assistive devices, orthotics, or braces for better mobility
• On-site spasticity management, including medications or injections
• Development of adaptive techniques to improve standing, walking, and climbing
• Collaborative care with other specialists for a comprehensive approach
• Lifelong care plans tailored to the child’s specific conditions

NICU Follow-Up Program

Hackensack Meridian Children’s Health offers NICU Follow-up Programs at Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital and K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital. Both provide specialized care for infants born under 32 weeks, with low birth weight, or those diagnosed with genetic conditions. 

Collaborating within a multidisciplinary framework, PM&R doctors evaluate children multiple times throughout the first three years of life to identify and manage any developmental difficulties at key points in time. They assess motor development, address any delays, and identify potential issues related to muscle tone or coordination. 

By prioritizing timely interventions and minimizing wait times, the program gives parents comprehensive information, realistic goals and a supportive framework. This ensures that infants receive the specialized attention they deserve through ongoing collaboration between pediatricians and other health care providers.