Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R)

When your child has a physical disability, developmental delay, injury, or complex medical condition, daily activities can take extra planning. Pediatric Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R), also called pediatric physiatry, focuses on helping children move, function, and participate as fully as possible. 

Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) provides pediatric PM&R through Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital. Our specialists help children and families understand their rehabilitation needs and next steps. 

Pediatric Rehabilitation Physician Services 

Pediatric PM&R services at WMCHealth include consultative care for children hospitalized at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital and outpatient pediatric physiatry clinic visits for children who need evaluation or ongoing rehabilitation care. 

Consultative Care for Hospitalized Children 

For children acutely hospitalized at Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital, pediatric rehabilitation physicians may help support mobility, therapy planning, equipment needs, and discharge planning. 

Outpatient Pediatric Physiatry Clinic 

In the outpatient clinic, children can be evaluated and receive ongoing subspecialty care for bracing needs, spasticity and tone management, Botulinum toxin injections, mobility concerns, and other rehabilitation needs. 

Pediatric PM&R Treatment Capabilities 

Your child’s care plan depends on their age, condition, goals, and overall health. Pediatric PM&R services may include: 

• Medication management 
• Gait and mobility evaluation 
• Bracing and orthotics support 
• Spasticity and tone management 
• Botulinum toxin injections 
• Salivary gland injections for drooling 
• Therapy planning and school-based support 
• Coordination with orthotics and prosthetics 
• Recommendations for walkers, gait trainers, and adaptive equipment 

Some injections may be performed in clinic. When needed, certain procedures may be performed with sedation in an operating room setting. 

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit 

Your child’s first visit helps the care team understand their current function, equipment, and support needs. Please bring any braces, orthoses, walkers, gait trainers, or other assistive devices your child uses. 

If equipment is difficult to bring, photos or the equipment name may also be helpful. This helps your provider understand what your child already has and what they may need next. 

During the visit, your child’s provider may assess movement, tone, walking, posture, pain, and daily function. Together, you’ll discuss a care plan that supports your child’s goals at home, school, therapy, and in the community.