Community Connection: Pediatric Physical Therapy Services

Introducing Pediatric Physical Therapy at McKenzie Health

 

by Riley Veis, Pediatric Physical Therapist

 

At McKenzie Health, we are proud to serve the youngest members of our community through our specialized Pediatric Physical Therapy Department. Our dedicated team provides expert care and support for children of all ages, helping them achieve their fullest potential in movement, strength, and function. Whether addressing congenital conditions, developmental delays, or orthopedic challenges, our goal is to empower children and their families with the tools they need to thrive.

Who We Help

Our Pediatric Physical Therapy Team specializes in treating a wide range of conditions, including:

• • Torticollis and plagiocephaly: Helping infants overcome head and neck alignment issues for optimal growth and development.
  • Gross motor delays: Supporting children who need assistance reaching developmental milestones, such as sitting, crawling, or walking.
  • Congenital disorders: Addressing physical challenges that children are born with, ensuring the best possible start.
  • Neurological conditions: Offering tailored interventions for children with conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida, or other neurological impairments.
  • Orthopedic impairments and injuries: Assisting children in recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions affecting their musculoskeletal system.

Our Services

We provide a variety of programs designed to meet the unique needs of each child. Our approach is individualized, evidence-based, and focused on helping children develop the skills they need for everyday life. Some core components of our Pediatric Physical Therapy Programs include:

• • Flexibility and Strength Training
    We work on increasing the flexibility of muscles and joints to support functional movements and prevent further complications. Strengthening exercises are tailored to enhance a child’s ability to perform activities of daily living.
  • Balance and Coordination Development
    Activities such as standing on one foot, hopping, or kicking a ball help children improve their balance and coordination, which are critical for both play and mobility.
  • Gross Motor Skills
    From rolling and crawling to running and jumping, we target key motor skills that enable children to explore their environment and interact with their peers.
  • Posture, Positioning, and Mobility Solutions
    Our team evaluates posture and provides guidance on positioning to ensure comfort and functionality at home, school, and in the community. We also assist in identifying and fitting adaptive equipment to improve mobility.
  • Home Programs and Caregiver Training
    Empowering families is a cornerstone of our practice. We create customized home programs and provide caregiver training so parents and guardians can confidently support their child’s progress outside therapy sessions.

Meet Riley Veis

I lead our Pediatric Physical Therapy Team. I earned my  Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Montana in May 2024. With both clinical and classroom experience, I quickly discovered my passion for working with children and am committed to a patient-centered approach that emphasizes family involvement and collaboration.

I grew up in a small town in eastern Montana, where I developed a deep appreciation for the strong sense of community that rural areas offer. During my gap year before graduate school, I lived in Watford City, working as a first-grade interventionist at Badlands Elementary. Now, I’m thrilled to return to Watford City to serve a community I love.

A Resource for the Community

At McKenzie Health, we see our Pediatric Physical Therapy Department as more than just a healthcare service—it’s a resource for the entire community. Whether your child needs assistance meeting developmental milestones, recovering from an injury, or managing a chronic condition, we are here to help.

If you’d like to learn more about our pediatric physical therapy services or schedule an appointment, please contact McKenzie Health at (701) 842-6315. Together, we can help your child reach new milestones and embrace a future full of possibilities.

We are proud to be part of your child’s journey and look forward to helping your family grow stronger, one step at a time.