UCSF Pediatric Physical Therapy Clinic

We specialize in individualized therapy to help kids with physical impairments – from illness, injury or developmental delays – function to the best of their abilities.

The UCSF Pediatric Physical Therapy Clinic wants all children with mobility or functional issues to reach their potential. We have the expertise and resources to help young patients overcome physical challenges caused by developmental delays, illnesses or injuries. In addition, our family-centered approach places special emphasis on teaching parents and other caregivers how to help their child walk, move and play safely. This is key to supporting our patients' ability to function in their own homes and communities. We offer services in both the clinic and the hospital, with convenient access to physical therapy in many of our community clinics.

Our pediatric physical therapists benefit from the ability to collaborate with other UCSF professionals, including specialists in pediatric physical medicine, pediatric cardiologists, pediatric neurologists, clinical nurse specialists, child life specialists, occupational therapists, speech-language therapists, psychologists, and experts in prosthetics and orthotics. Our patients are also supported by clinical nurses with special training in addressing complex medical needs, such as those of a child with a tracheostomy, on a ventilator or receiving tube feedings.

Each child's treatment plan is developed to address individual needs and goals. Treatments may include exercises to increase range of motion and strength; training to improve gait and functional mobility; neuromuscular reeducation (techniques that condition a part of the body to move normally again); casting, splinting and taping to improve alignment; and instruction on how to use crutches correctly. Our therapists seek to maximize every child's recovery potential and provide instruction for patients and families on maintaining strength and mobility over the long term.

While our program is for babies and children up to 18 years old, we offer assistance with continuing care and service referrals for patients who age out of our care but require ongoing support.

Family-friendly amenities help you relax and take care of yourself while staying close to your child. We offer lounges, kitchens, showers, breastfeeding rooms and more.

Social workers ease the effect of illness, injury and hospitalization on your family with counseling and assistance to help you navigate the challenges.

Activity rooms offer a relaxed environment for children of all ages. Features include a playroom, digital arts studio and teen lounge. Find out more.

Art therapy helps kids and families express themselves, making it easier to cope with pediatric health issues. Group and bedside services are available.

Board-certified music therapists help kids cope with illness and the feelings that come with it. Find out about group activities and bedside therapy.

Our schoolroom services and individual learning programs help children hospitalized at UCSF continue their education and get ready to return to school.

After hospitalization, we help kids return to school by educating staff and students about their needs and recommending needed accommodations. Read more.

We help families cope with the challenges of childhood illness and hospitalization in a relaxing environment where parents can get a much-needed break.

Patient relations reps and nursing supervisors are here to answer questions and address concerns. Learn about your rights, how to reach us and more.

If you're coming to UCSF from outside the U.S., we coordinate your child's appointments and provide other helpful services. Here's how to get started.