Physical therapy (PT)

What it is

Physical therapy (PT) is a therapy that helps improve movement, strength, balance, coordination, and motor skills. It supports children and adults whose movement or motor development is affected by hydrocephalus.

Understanding Physical therapy (PT)

In children with hydrocephalus, physical therapy can support motor development — helping with skills such as sitting, standing, walking, and coordination — particularly when development is delayed or affected by associated conditions. In adults, physical therapy can help with gait, balance, strength, and mobility, including in normal pressure hydrocephalus, where gait disturbance is a key feature (PT may complement treatment such as a shunt). Physical therapists assess movement and design individualized programs, working as part of the broader care and support team. Physical therapy is one of the core supportive therapies (alongside occupational and speech therapy) that help people with hydrocephalus function and develop to their potential. Understanding its role helps families see how movement and motor skills can be supported.

Why it matters

Understanding physical therapy's role helps families see how movement, strength, balance, and motor skills can be supported in both children (motor development) and adults (gait and mobility) affected by hydrocephalus.