Theoretical practice in pediatric physical therapy: Past, present, and future considerations

This article provides a historical perspective, review of current trends of theoretical practice, and future considerations in pediatric physical therapy since the inception of the Section on Pediatrics in the 1970s. A review of concepts and principles of the early neurotherapeutic approaches with respect to more current concepts of management, transition from child-centered to family-centered services, and trends in measurement and assessment procedures in pediatric physical therapy are presented.