Serving the Keiki of Maui: A Journey in Pediatric Physical Therapy
My clinical rotation at Pediatric Therapies Hawaii in Kahului, Maui, was transformative both professionally and personally. In a place where healthcare access is limited by geographical constraints, I discovered the profound impact that dedicated pediatric physical therapy can have on an island community.
Population Served
Throughout my experience, I had the privilege of working with keiki (children) ranging from just 2 months to 19 years of age. This diverse age range presented unique developmental considerations and treatment approaches for each patient. I encountered a wide spectrum of diagnoses including:
- Cerebral Palsy (CP)
- Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
- Legg-Calvé-Perthes Disease (LCP)
- Torticollis
- Musculoskeletal pain
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Osteogenesis Imperfecta
- Down Syndrome
- Congenital heart defects
- Various genetic and developmental delays
Clinical Growth and Adaptation
The nature of pediatric practice demanded creativity and flexibility in my clinical approach. I quickly learned that traditional examination and treatment protocols needed adaptation to engage young patients effectively. This experience taught me to:
- Meet children at their developmental level to build rapport and trust
- Transform assessment tools into playful activities
- Create motivating treatment environments that encourage participation
- Adjust communication styles based on cognitive and emotional development
- Incorporate play as a therapeutic medium while maintaining clinical objectives
Interprofessional Collaboration
Though Pediatric Therapies Hawaii operated in a small clinical setting, the impact of its multidisciplinary team was immense. Working alongside experienced occupational therapists expanded my clinical toolbox significantly. I gained valuable insights into:
- Behavioral management techniques for complex presentations
- Task-oriented care approaches for children with autism and ADHD
- Understanding sensory processing challenges and tactile defensiveness
- Implementation of graded exposure techniques using sensory integration interventions
- Collaborative care planning that leveraged both PT and OT perspectives
This interprofessional environment fostered a holistic approach to pediatric care that addressed physical, developmental, and behavioral needs simultaneously.
Advocacy and Professional Development
Beyond direct patient care, my experience included meaningful discussions with the clinic owner regarding advocacy for pediatric physical therapy services. These conversations illuminated:
- The unique healthcare challenges facing island communities
- Gaps in pediatric PT services across Hawaii
- Strategies for advocating for expanded pediatric services
- The importance of community education about early intervention
- Professional responsibility in addressing healthcare disparities
Reflection
My time at Pediatric Therapies Hawaii reinforced my commitment to pediatric practice. Supporting the keiki—the future of the community—through skilled physical therapy services creates ripples that extend far beyond immediate clinical outcomes. I witnessed how early intervention and dedicated pediatric care can significantly alter developmental trajectories and improve quality of life for both children and their families.
The creativity, adaptability, and heart required in pediatric physical therapy align perfectly with my professional aspirations. This experience has equipped me with specialized skills in pediatric assessment, treatment planning, and interprofessional collaboration that will serve as the foundation for my future practice.
Most importantly, I learned that in pediatric physical therapy, clinical excellence is measured not just in improved functional outcomes, but in the smiles, confidence, and possibilities we help create for our youngest patients.
