Pediatric Therapy: Empowering Kids to Be the Best They can Be 

Every child deserves the chance to put their best foot forward. At Cuyuna Regional Medical Center (CRMC), our team of dedicated professionals, led by passionate providers in the field of rehabilitation services, provide comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. Carly Schwappach, SLP, and Tonya Paul, DPT, are among the leaders in their respective fields, working with the youngest patients. “A child has one job – to play! If a child is not able to play and explore their environment like the same-aged peers, they are missing experiences to learn and grow from,” said Tonya, the newest member of the rehab team. She joined in June 2024, as a Pediatric Physical Therapist.

Pediatric Physical Therapy focuses on addressing children’s physical and developmental needs, from infants to teenagers. It involves assessing and treating various conditions that affect a child’s ability to move around, explore their environment, and play. “We support children in reaching developmental milestones, such as crawling, walking, and gross motor skills while also working on balance, coordination, and strength,” said Tonya.

The medical facility boasts a newly renovated room with bright colors and a welcoming environment, designed to make children feel comfortable and at ease during their therapy.  “The goal of Pediatric PT is to allow the child to participate in meaningful activities that maximize their potential to function independently and/or provide support for them to be able to interact and play,” explained Tonya.

CRMC’s pediatric therapy is a collaboration of physical, occupational, and speech therapists. “Our program is dedicated to providing individualized, patient-led treatment for children with a variety of diagnoses, including Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, tracheostomy/gastrostomy, auditory processing disorder, Dandy-Walker syndrome, trauma-related disorders, Loeys-Dietz Syndrome Type 2, Torticollis, toe walking and more. We emphasize collaboration between CRMC therapists and school-based therapists to ensure comprehensive care tailored to each child’s unique needs,” said Carly.

If you want to learn more about the pediatric rehabilitation program, call 218-546-2315 to schedule a consultation. “Every child is a different kind of flower, and all together, make this world a beautiful garden.” – unknown