Leaps and Bounds PT

Initial Evaluations at Leaps & Bounds Pediatric Physical Therapy

10/1/2024

We understand starting therapy can feel overwhelming for both
children and parents alike, regardless of the child’s age or possible
diagnosis. Knowing what to expect during your first appointment with
us can help alleviate some concerns while setting the stage for a
successful physical therapy experience. Dr. Bassem has written a
helpful guide to prepare you and your child for the first visit to our clinic.

Before your appointment, we recommend gathering any information that may be relevant to your visit. Whether you have a physician’s referral, an X-ray, or a video showcasing a specific concern, we’re here to take a look and address your questions. We also recommend that you create a list of concerns in your child’s gross or fine motor development along with any other questions you’d like to discuss with your therapist.

Please also remember to bring your insurance information, identification, and any necessary paperwork to the evaluation as this will streamline the process. And while our clinic is filled with toys that your child will love, we encourage you to bring along a favorite toy for added comfort to the first session.

When you arrive at one of our three clinics, you’ll be welcomed by our front desk staff, who will assist you with the check-in process. Next, your physical therapist will introduce themselves to both you and your little one and guide you to the treatment area. To better understand your child’s needs, the therapist will conduct a brief interview with you, and they may inquire about your child’s medical history and any current challenges they’re facing. This is a great time to discuss your concerns as well.

During the evaluation, your therapist will observe your child’s movement patterns, coordination, and balance through engaging play-based activities. This could involve encouraging your infant to crawl toward their favorite toy or having your child navigate an
obstacle course with many different elements to check their balance. Depending on your child’s age and needs, the therapist may conduct a standardized test to assess their physical abilities, for example, the Alberta Infant Motor Scale & Movement Assessment Battery for Children. Nevertheless, you can expect a strong sense of play during the session, as our approach is centered around engaging activities to keep your child motivated. After the evaluation, the therapist will share their findings with you and collaborate on setting goals tailored to your child’s unique needs and family priorities. They’ll explain which goals are achievable in both the short and long term and will give ways that the therapist and the family alike may be able to measure the progress in these goals.

Your therapist may also give you a home exercise program (HEP) with some simple exercises that would be beneficial for your child to practice at home. Your therapist will guide you in learning how to best set up these activities at home and may even give alternative exercises as well. Your therapist will discuss the frequency and duration of future appointments and if needed, you can schedule additional appointments right then and there with our front desk staff. As always, we encourage you to ask any and all questions to any member of our knowledgeable staff.

Beyond your first appointment, we’re always just a call, text, or email away and we recommend families to reach out in whatever way is most convenient for them. You can start practicing the HEP in your daily routine to reinforce the hard work of your child during his or her physical therapy sessions.

If you have any concerns about your child's development, please feel free to fill out our contact form or call any of our three offices. We will get back to you with any out-of-pocket expenses and set up an evaluation at your earliest convenience.
We can’t wait to see your child grow by Leaps & Bounds!

Work Hard Play Hard: Keeping Your Child Active After Going Back to School

9/1/2024

As the summer ends and the school year kicks off, it can be challenging to maintain your child’s activity levels amidst the busy schedule. However, staying active is crucial for their physical health and overall well-being. Here are some practical tips from Dr. Lindsey to help keep your child moving and grooving throughout the school year!

1. Establish a Routine
Creating a consistent daily routine that includes physical activity can help your child stay active without feeling overwhelmed. Set aside specific times each day for exercise, whether it's a quick morning stretch, a short evening walk, or a fun weekend activity. Consistency is key to making physical activity a natural part of their day.

2. Incorporate Movement into Homework Time
Encourage your child to take short breaks during homework sessions. During these breaks, they can do quick exercises like jumping jacks, stretches, or even a short dance party. This not only helps with staying active but can also improve focus and productivity when they return to their homework.

3. Choose Fun Activities
Involve your child in choosing activities they enjoy. Whether it's a sport, dance class, or simply playing in the park, making physical activity fun will increase the likelihood of them sticking with it. Let them try out different activities to find what they love the most.

4. Be a Role Model
Children often mimic the behavior of adults. If you demonstrate an active lifestyle, your child is more likely to follow suit. Participate in physical activities together, whether it's hiking, biking, or playing a sport. Your enthusiasm will be contagious!

5. Utilize School Resources
Check if your child's school offers extracurricular activities or sports programs. These can be a great way for your child to stay active and socialize. If your child has a favorite sport or activity, encourage them to join or continue participating in these programs.

6. Incorporate Movement into Daily Tasks
Transform everyday tasks into opportunities for physical activity. Encourage your child to walk or bike to school, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or do a quick workout routine before bed. Small changes can make a big difference over time.

7. Set Goals and Celebrate Achievements
Setting achievable goals for physical activity can motivate your child to stay active. Celebrate milestones and achievements, whether it's mastering a new dance move or reaching a fitness goal. Positive reinforcement will help keep them engaged and excited about staying active.

8. Engage in Family Activities
Family activities that involve movement can be a great way to spend quality time together while staying active. Plan family outings that include physical activities like hiking, playing sports, or even just a walk around the neighborhood. It’s a fun way to bond and encourage an active lifestyle.

9. Create a Home Workout Space
Designate a specific area in your home for physical activities. This could be a small corner with exercise equipment, mats for stretching, or space for dancing. Having a dedicated area makes it easier for your child to engage in physical activity at home.

10. Monitor Screen Time
Excessive screen time can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. Set limits on how much time your child spends in front of screens and encourage them to participate in active play during their free time. Balance is essential for their physical and mental health.

Keeping your child active after going back to school doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By integrating physical activity into their daily routine, making it enjoyable, and leading by example, you can help your child stay healthy and energetic throughout the school year. Remember, the key is to make movement a natural and fun part of their everyday life. Here’s to a lively and active school year!

The Importance of Core Strengthening in the Pediatric Population: Building a Strong Foundation for Health and Development

8/1/2024

When we think about core strength, many of us picture elite athletes or intense fitness regimens. However, core strengthening is equally crucial for children, impacting their overall health, development, and everyday functioning. In Dr. Brianna's blog post, we’ll explore why core strengthening is vital for children, the benefits it offers, and practical ways to incorporate core-strengthening activities into their daily routines.

What is Core Strengthening?
Core strengthening involves exercises and activities that enhance the muscles around the trunk of the body, including the abdomen, lower back, hips, and pelvis. These muscles form the foundation of the body, providing stability and support for all movements and activities.

Why is Core Strengthening Important for Children?
1. Enhances Posture and Alignment Good core strength contributes to proper posture and alignment. For children, this means standing and sitting up straight, which can prevent and alleviate issues like slouching and back pain. Proper alignment is essential for overall physical health and can impact everything from breathing to digestion.
2. Supports Motor Skill Development Core strength is integral to the development of motor skills. As children engage in activities like running, jumping, and climbing, a strong core helps them maintain balance and coordination. This foundational strength supports more complex movements and athletic skills as they grow.
3. Improves Balance and Stability A strong core enhances balance and stability, which is crucial for everyday activities and sports. Children with a well-developed core are less likely to experience falls and injuries. Improved balance also supports the development of coordination, which is vital for physical activities and recreational pursuits.
4. Aids in Efficient Movement Core strength contributes to more efficient and effective movement patterns. For children, this means better performance in sports, more fluid movements in dance or gymnastics, and reduced fatigue during physical activities. Efficient movement also translates to better energy conservation and endurance.
5. Prevents Injuries Strengthening the core helps protect the spine and surrounding muscles from strain and injury. For active children, a robust core acts as a protective shield against common injuries related to sports and play. By reinforcing the core, children are less susceptible to injuries and can recover more quickly when they do occur.

How to Incorporate Core Strengthening into a Child’s Routine
1. Fun Activities and Games Incorporating core strengthening into play can make exercise enjoyable for children. Activities like animal crawls, balance beam walks, and playful games involving balancing objects or holding positions can engage core muscles while keeping kids entertained.
2. Yoga and Stretching Yoga is an excellent way to build core strength in children. Poses like the plank, boat pose, and child’s pose help develop abdominal and back muscles while promoting flexibility and relaxation. Many children’s yoga classes incorporate fun stories and themes, making the practice engaging and effective.
3. Interactive Exercises Using tools like stability balls or balance boards can add an element of fun to core exercises. Children can practice sitting on a stability ball or perform gentle exercises like ball passes or balance exercises to strengthen their core.
4. Everyday Activities Encouraging children to engage in activities that naturally promote core strength can be highly beneficial. For example, climbing on playground equipment, participating in sports, or even helping with household chores like carrying groceries or gardening can contribute to core development.
5. Core-Strengthening Sports Sports that require core engagement, such as gymnastics, martial arts, swimming, or dance, can be excellent avenues for building core strength. These activities naturally involve core muscles and provide structured opportunities for improvement.

Core strengthening is not just for adults or elite athletes; it plays a crucial role in the health and development of children. By enhancing posture, supporting motor skills, improving balance, and preventing injuries, a strong core sets the stage for overall physical well-being. Integrating core-strengthening activities into a child’s daily routine can be both fun and beneficial, laying a strong foundation for a healthy, active life. So let’s embrace playful exercises and engaging activities that help our kids build their core strength and thrive!

Dr. Bassem's Guide to Biking Fun and Safety for Kids

7/1/2024

With June flying by and summer truly underway, it’s the perfect time to encourage your little ones to embrace the outdoors and learn a new skill that promotes both physical activity and independence–bicycle riding. Bike riding is not only a great summer pastime but also a fantastic way to enhance your child’s balance, coordination, strength, and overall motor skills!

Choosing the Right Bike: Pedal Bike with Training Wheels vs. Balance Bike
When it comes to teaching children how to ride, parents often debate between pedal bikes with training wheels and balance bikes. Each option has its unique benefits as described below:

Pedal bikes with training wheels provide immediate stability, helping children feel secure as they learn to pedal. However, they can sometimes inhibit the development of balance and coordination.

Balance bikes—bicycles without pedals—focus on teaching children to balance first, often leading to quicker mastery of biking skills and a smoother transition to pedal bikes without the need for training wheels. However, some children have difficulty propelling themselves forward while sitting and balancing.

It is possible to modify a bike with training wheels to be utilized more similarly to a balance bike by; and there are also some models of balance bikes which allow you to add pedals later on!
To modify a pedal bike:

Remove the training wheels to focus on balance rather than relying solely on training wheels.
Lower the seat and remove pedals, cranks, & chain so your child’s legs are the main source of propulsion

Choosing the Right Time to Start
The ideal time to teach your child to ride a bike varies, most typically between ages 3 and 6. Look for signs of interest and readiness such as curiosity about bikes and a willingness to try new activities. Your little one should have the strength to pedal a bike prior to utilizing a pedal bike, and if that is not the case a balance bike may be a better option!

Ensuring Safety First
Safety is paramount when teaching your child to ride a bike. Choose a safe, flat location away from traffic. Ensure your child wears a properly fitted helmet and comfortable clothing. And teach them the basic rules of the road.

Correctly Sizing the Bike
Proper bike sizing is crucial for comfort and safety:

Your child should be able to stand over the top tube with feet flat on the ground and have about 1 to 3 inches of clearance. Adjust the seat height so they can comfortably reach the pedals with a slight knee bend when fully extended. Avoid getting a bike that is too large in hopes of having them grow into it, as it can be harder for them to control.

Teaching your child to ride a bike is a memorable milestone that promotes physical health and independence. Whether you choose a pedal bike with training wheels or a balance bike for your little one, prioritize safety and ensure the bike is correctly sized. With patience, encouragement, and the right guidance, your child will soon be biking confidently towards new adventures this summer and beyond.
At Leaps and Bounds PT, we support your child’s development with personalized guidance on motor skill development. Consult your child’s physical therapist for expert advice tailored to your child’s needs, especially if you have concerns regarding their physical milestones or readiness leading up to bike riding.
Stay active, stay safe, and enjoy the ride this summer!

Summer Fun: Activities for New Walkers to Boost Motor Skills

6/1/2024

As the warm weather rolls in, parents of new walkers are eager to explore outdoor activities with their little ones. Summer presents a perfect opportunity to engage in activities that not only entertain, but also support the development of their child's newfound walking skills. Leaps and Bounds emphasizes the importance of movement and exploration in early childhood development. Here, Dr. Lindsey has curated a list of summer activities tailored specifically for new walkers to enhance their motor skills while having a blast under the sun!

1. Nature Scavenger Hunt:
Embark on a nature scavenger hunt in your local park or neighborhood. Create a simple list of items for your child to find, such as leaves, flowers, rocks, or sticks. Encourage them to walk independently as they search for each item. This activity not only promotes walking but also enhances observation skills and fosters a connection with the natural world.

2. Water Play:
Summer and water activities go hand in hand. Fill a small kiddie pool or water table with shallow water and let your new walker splash and play. Place floating toys or objects slightly out of reach to encourage them to take steps and reach for them. Walking in water provides resistance, which strengthens muscles and improves balance. Just remember, safety first—always supervise your child around water, no matter how shallow.

3. Sensory Walks:
Take your little explorer on a sensory adventure through nature. Parks, beaches, and even your backyard offer various textures, temperatures, and surfaces to stimulate their senses. Encourage your child to feel the grass under their feet, the sand between their toes, and the cool water as they splash around. Sensory experiences like these help improve balance, coordination, and proprioception.

4. Outdoor Music and Dance:
Put on some lively music and groove together in the backyard or local park. Encourage your child to move to the beat, taking steps and exploring different movements. Dancing helps improve motor planning, rhythm, and coordination. Plus, it's a fantastic way to bond and have fun together as a family.

5. Miniature Golf:
Miniature golf courses offer a perfect setting for new walkers to practice their skills in a structured environment. The gentle slopes, ramps, and obstacles provide opportunities to develop balance, coordination, and spatial awareness. Guide your child as they navigate through the course, celebrating each successful putt and step they take.

6. Sidewalk Chalk Art:
Unleash your child's creativity while promoting physical activity with sidewalk chalk art. Let them explore their artistic side by drawing shapes, lines, and squiggles on the pavement. Encourage them to walk around as they draw, practicing balance and coordination. You can even create a mini obstacle course or hopscotch to add an extra element of fun and challenge.

Summer is a season of exploration, growth, and fun for new walkers. By engaging in these outdoor activities, parents can support their child's physical development while creating cherished memories together. Remember to always prioritize safety, provide encouragement, and celebrate every milestone along the way. With each step taken and every adventure embarked upon, your little one is not only exploring the world but also building a strong foundation for a lifetime of movement and discovery!

Understanding Pediatric Hip Dysplasia: From Infancy to Adolescence

5/1/2024

Pediatric hip dysplasia is a complex condition that can affect infants, children, and adolescents, with significant implications for long-term musculoskeletal health. In this blog post, Dr. Brianna aims to shed light on this condition, discussing its causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and the latest research advancements.

What is Pediatric Hip Dysplasia? Pediatric hip dysplasia, also known as developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), refers to an abnormal development of the hip joint. It can range from mild instability to complete dislocation of the hip joint. DDH can occur during fetal development, infancy, childhood, or adolescence, and its severity varies among individuals.

What causes hip dysplasia? The exact cause of pediatric hip dysplasia is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to its development. These include genetics, breech position during pregnancy, swaddling or tight wrapping of infants' hips, and certain environmental factors. Female infants are more prone to DDH than males, and it often runs in families.

How is hip dysplasia diagnosed? Early detection of hip dysplasia is crucial for effective management and preventing long-term complications. Newborns are routinely screened for hip dysplasia using physical examination techniques like the Ortolani and Barlow tests. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or X-rays may be used for confirmation if the physical exam is inconclusive. In older children and adolescents, clinical symptoms like limping, leg length discrepancy, or hip pain may prompt further evaluation with imaging studies.

What is the proper treatment for hip dysplasia? Treatment strategies for pediatric hip dysplasia depend on the age of the child and the severity of the condition. In infants, gentle manipulation and positioning techniques like Pavlik harness or Frejka pillow may be used to maintain proper hip alignment and promote normal joint development. For older children and adolescents, treatment may involve bracing, stretching, therapeutic exercise, or surgical interventions.

Have there been any advances in research regarding hip dysplasia? Recent research in the field of pediatric orthopedics has focused on improving diagnostic techniques, refining treatment algorithms, and understanding the long-term outcomes of hip dysplasia management. Advances in imaging technology, such as three-dimensional ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), offer better visualization of hip anatomy and aid in early diagnosis. Moreover, studies exploring the genetic basis of DDH provide insights into its underlying mechanisms and potential targets for future therapies. Longitudinal cohort studies tracking patients from infancy to adulthood help evaluate the effectiveness of different treatment modalities and identify factors influencing outcomes, such as age at diagnosis, severity of dysplasia, and compliance with treatment protocols.

Conclusion: Pediatric hip dysplasia is a multifaceted condition that requires early detection and tailored management approaches to optimize outcomes. Through ongoing research efforts and multidisciplinary collaboration, healthcare professionals aim to enhance our understanding of DDH, refine treatment strategies, and improve the quality of life for affected individuals from infancy through adolescence and beyond.

Starting Spring with Autism Acceptance Month

4/1/2024

As the weather gets warmer, and days grow longer, we also step into a very special time of the year, Autism Acceptance Month! The Spring season, symbolic of growth, offers a perfect backdrop to highlight the journey of children with autism, especially through the lens of physical therapy. Join Dr. Bassem as we celebrate these incredible children and the unique benefits that physical therapy can bring to their lives.

As a pediatric physical therapist, I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the remarkable strides children with autism can make when supported with compassion, understanding, and personalized care. Physical therapy plays a pivotal role in the development of children with autism by encouraging motor skills, while also fostering a sense of independence, confidence, and engagement with the world.

Children with autism often face challenges with gross motor skills such as walking, running, or jumping. They may also struggle with fine motor skills, including grasping objects or performing delicate tasks. Yet, with personalized exercises and activities, we can nurture the development of these skills in a comfortable and conducive environment. Through active listening, empathy, and patience, the therapist can adapt their approach to suit the child's communication style, whether it involves verbal language, nonverbal cues, or alternative communication methods.

Spring also brings a symphony of sensory experiences, from the scent of flowers to the feel of grass underfoot. Similarly, physical therapy can help children with autism navigate their sensory experiences more effectively. Through controlled exposure to various physical stimuli in a safe environment, therapy can help reduce sensory sensitivities and improve sensory processing, making the world a less overwhelming place. Physical therapy sets the stage for children with autism to achieve greater independence. By improving motor skills and coordination including running, jumping, throwing & kicking a ball, children can gain the ability to perform daily activities with less assistance.

This April, as we watch the world around us burst into life, let's also celebrate every step, jump, and milestone achieved by children with autism. Their journey is a testament to the resilience and potential within each of them, waiting to blossom with the right support and nurturing. By advocating for inclusive environments and supporting therapies that cater to the unique needs of children with autism, we contribute to a world where every child can thrive.

The journey with autism, much like the unfolding of Spring, is filled with moments of growth and discovery. Celebrate differences and let us make Autism Acceptance Month a time of joyful celebration and commitment to acceptance!

Baby Bootcamp

3/1/2024

One of our main goals at Leaps and Bounds Pediatric Physical Therapy is to aid our children and families through education and by fostering a community. One of our newest class offerings at our Holmdel, NJ location aims to do just that- read on as Dr. Lindsey talks about our new addition: Baby Bootcamp!

What is Baby Bootcamp?
Baby Bootcamp is a class designed for new and expectant parents to learn about the Motor Milestones their baby will achieve from birth to 18 months. Within the class we cover skills such as rolling, crawling and walking, and so much more! This class combines both education and purposeful play by having parents actively participate in helping their baby practice these skills with the help of Dr. Lindsey and Dr. Leandra. Throughout the course we provide not only different activities to use with your child, but recommendations for age-appropriate toys as they grow.

Who is right for Baby Bootcamp?
Baby Bootcamp is broken up into 2 groups based on age and current skill level:

"Rockers and Rollers" is for babies pre-crawling, usually 0-6 months. At this level we discuss skills such as tracking, rolling, and sitting, and will begin to touch on crawling in preparation for level 2. This course is also recommended for any expecting parents interested in attending to learn techniques and activities for when their little one is here!
"Movers and Groovers" is for babies that have either begun crawling or are close to crawling, but are not yet walking, usually 7-18 months. At this level we discuss skills such as crawling, cruising, standing, and walking.

How do I sign up for Baby Bootcamp?
The link to sign up for Baby Bootcamp is provided below, also available on our website and Instagram page @leapsandboundspt. Classes can either be purchased individually or in a pack of 3. Included in the purchase of a pack of 3 is the opportunity to email our Physical Therapists with questions you may have concerning your baby in between classes!

Our Spring Schedule is as Follows:
Friday 3/29: 11am Rockers and Rollers, 12pm Movers and Groovers
Friday 4/26: 11am Rockers and Rollers, 12pm Movers and Groovers
Friday 5/17: 11am Rockers and Rollers, 12pm Movers and Groovers

For any questions, please feel free to email [email protected] or call our Holmdel location at (732)-479-2472.

We look forward to seeing you and your baby there!

To sign up for this class, please visit our classes page and click the image to get started!
Classes - Leaps and Bounds PT

LEAPING into The LEAP Year: Proper Mechanics and Red Flags for Jumping in the Pediatric Population

2/1/2024

Jumping is not only a fundamental movement skill but also a joyful activity for children. From hopscotch to basketball, mastering proper jumping mechanics is essential for both performance and injury prevention in pediatric populations. In this blog, Dr. Brianna will delve into the importance of correct jumping form for children and highlight red flags to watch out for, indicating improper mechanics.

Why Proper Jumping Mechanics Matter
Jumping involves coordinated movement of various muscles and joints, making it a complex skill to master. For pediatric populations, learning proper jumping mechanics is crucial for several reasons:

Injury Prevention: Correct jumping mechanics distribute forces evenly throughout the body, reducing the risk of overuse injuries, such as stress fractures or tendonitis.
Enhanced Performance: Proper form allows children to jump higher and farther, improving their performance in sports and recreational activities.
Developmental Milestones: Mastering jumping skills is a developmental milestone for children, signaling strength, coordination, and balance.

Key Components of Proper Jumping Mechanics
To ensure children are jumping safely and effectively, it's essential to focus on the following key components of jumping mechanics:

Bend Your Knees: When preparing to jump, children should bend their knees, lowering their center of gravity and engaging their leg muscles.
Use Your Arms: Swinging the arms backward during the descent and then forward during takeoff generates momentum, helping propel the body upward.
Land Softly: Upon landing, children should aim to land softly on the balls of their feet, bending their knees to absorb the impact and dissipate forces.
Maintain Core Stability: A stable core helps maintain balance and control throughout the jumping motion. Encourage children to engage their core muscles during jumps.
Keep Feet Parallel: To ensure stability and optimal force transmission, children should aim to keep their feet parallel to each other during takeoff and landing.

Red Flags: Signs of Improper Jumping Mechanics
While observing children's jumping activities, keep an eye out for the following red flags, which may indicate improper jumping mechanics:

Knees Caving Inward: Excessive inward movement of the knees (valgus collapse) during landing suggests weakness or poor control of the hip and knee muscles, increasing the risk of knee injuries.
Flat Feet: If a child consistently lands with flat feet or rolls excessively inward (pronation), it may indicate poor foot and ankle stability, potentially leading to lower limb injuries.
Landing Heavily: Loud and forceful landings with minimal knee bend suggest poor shock absorption and may increase the risk of stress-related injuries.
Limited Height or Distance: Difficulty achieving height or distance in jumps despite adequate strength and effort may indicate technical deficiencies or neuromuscular imbalances.
Excessive Backward Lean: Leaning too far backward during takeoff or landing can strain the lower back and increase the risk of falls or loss of balance.

Proper jumping mechanics are essential for pediatric populations to jump safely, efficiently, and with minimal risk of injury. By focusing on key components such as knee bend, arm swing, soft landings, core stability, and foot alignment, children can develop healthy movement patterns and enjoy the benefits of jumping activities. Additionally, being aware of red flags indicating improper mechanics allows parents, coaches, and healthcare providers to intervene early and provide necessary guidance and support for children's physical development and well-being. So, let's encourage our young jumpers to LEAP into health with confidence and proper form!

Reflecting on 2023 with Dr. Bassem: A Year at Leaps and Bounds

1/1/2024

As we wave goodbye to another transformative chapter and eagerly embrace a new one, we're filled with deep gratitude and immense pride as we reflect on the incredible milestones and journeys that have enriched the story of Leaps and Bounds. The past year stands as a testament to our growth, joy, and unwavering dedication to empowering our patients to reach their utmost potential.

Celebrating Patient Success Stories:
Throughout the year, we've had the honor of witnessing remarkable transformations among our patients. From overcoming post-injury challenges to achieving newfound mobility, each success story represents the dedication of both our skilled therapists and the determination of our patients. Explore glimpses of these incredible journeys in our Google reviews and Instagram highlights!

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patients are growing by Leaps and Bounds!

Innovations in Treatments and Services
At Leaps and Bounds, our pursuit of knowledge and innovation in physical therapy knows no bounds. This year, our therapists undertook and excelled in various courses, such as the Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) technique and courses at APTA CSM in San Diego.
These courses, complemented by enlightening in-service sessions led by esteemed local medical professionals—ranging from insightful discussions on nutrition with Carla, business growth strategies with Dr. Nasri, to vital insights on oral health by Dr. Joe from Sweet Tooth Pediatric Dental, and the invaluable Tummy Time method with OT Christine Pollack, arm care for pitchers from Dr. Mazzone—have greatly enriched the experiences of our patients. Our commitment to continual learning and enhancement has spurred us to expand our service repertoire, ensuring that we comprehensively can cater to the diverse needs of our community.

Community Engagement
Beyond the clinic walls, our passion for community engagement thrived in 2023! Leaps and Bounds hosted a medley of events including vibrant dance and art gatherings, educational "Baby Boot Camp" sessions for parents, invigorating yoga classes, and active participation in community events such as the Red Bank NJ 5K, the Fall Festival alongside the Healthy Path Foundation, and the spirited Crafty Kids Trunk or Treat.
Collaborating with local organizations, hosting events, and participating in community events has allowed us to extend our expertise and network beyond treatment rooms. Developmental milestones in children, injury prevention, wellness, and the benefits of physical therapy have all been key topics in our outreach efforts.
Expanding our business and personnel!
This year marked monumental progress for our organizational growth as well. Leaps and Bounds:

Expanded its offices to Holmdel, NJ, appointing Dr. Lindsey Otteson as Clinical Director, bolstering our commitment to excellence.
Welcomed Julianna, a stellar addition as our newest Physical Therapist, and Julia, who brings her exceptional skills as our receptionist—fortunate to have both of you!
Continued to welcome several PT students from programs across the country to learn and expand their pediatric knowledge with our physical therapists.

Looking Ahead: Commitment to Excellence
As we step into 2024, our goal to serve our patients with unwavering dedication stays unchanged. We're committed to celebrating our patients, embracing innovation, and continuing to evolve our practice to provide the highest standards of care. In serving our community, we hope to be a source of support, guidance, and healing on every individual's journey towards improved health and well-being.
The past year was adorned with inspiring moments and shared triumphs. To our patients, staff, and the wider community, thank you for being integral members of our Leaps and Bounds family. As we venture into the new year united, we eagerly anticipate another year filled with growth, well-being, and collective accomplishments.

We are so excited to announce that Dr. Bassem will be taking on the role of Clinical Director for our North Shore office as well as Dr. Brianna for our South Shore office. Aside from the amazing clinicians they are, they have truly shown what it takes to be leaders and mentors and we can't wait to see the success and growth they bring to our offices.

We can’t wait to see you in our offices in 2024. Happy New Year!

If your child was treated here at Leaps and Bounds, please feel free to leave us a review!

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<<Previous

Initial Evaluations at Leaps & Bounds Pediatric Physical Therapy

Work Hard Play Hard: Keeping Your Child Active After Going Back to School

The Importance of Core Strengthening in the Pediatric Population: Building a Strong Foundation for Health and Development

Dr. Bassem's Guide to Biking Fun and Safety for Kids

Summer Fun: Activities for New Walkers to Boost Motor Skills

Understanding Pediatric Hip Dysplasia: From Infancy to Adolescence

Starting Spring with Autism Acceptance Month

Baby Bootcamp

LEAPING into The LEAP Year: Proper Mechanics and Red Flags for Jumping in the Pediatric Population

Reflecting on 2023 with Dr. Bassem: A Year at Leaps and Bounds

Click the Instagram icon above to follow us and see how our
patients are growing by Leaps and Bounds!

We can’t wait to see you in our offices in 2024. Happy New Year!

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Click the Instagram icon above to follow us and see how our ​patients are growing by Leaps and Bounds!

We can’t wait to see you in our offices in 2024. Happy New Year!

Welcome

Archives

Categories

​LOCATIONS

Click the Instagram icon above to follow us and see how our
patients are growing by Leaps and Bounds!

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