Newborn

Have you ever wondered if your baby’s development is on track, or if they might need baby physical therapy? Or worried about their tummy time struggles, late crawling, or an unusual posture?

You’re not alone! With my first child, we noticed she was struggling with reflux, hated tummy time, and was beginning to develop a flat spot on one side of her head. Quickly we were able to determine she had torticollis, and with the help of a local physical therapist we were able to get her the assistance she needed to receive the tension in her body and to help her begin to reach her physical milestones.

That’s exactly why I reached out to Jagruti Hambir, a Metro ATL-based baby physical therapist, to get the inside scoop on what they really do, the biggest misconceptions about baby PT, and how early intervention can make a huge difference.

Whether you’re considering therapy for your baby or just looking for expert advice, you’re going to love this conversation!

Can you explain what physical therapy is and how it can benefit infants?

Physical therapy is about helping people move and function better, and for infants, it’s truly special because it supports them during the most foundational time of their development. Babies are growing and learning so quickly, and sometimes they need a little extra help to move comfortably and reach their milestones. Whether it’s addressing tightness, improving strength, or encouraging new movements, physical therapy can make a world of difference—not just for the baby but for the entire family. As a mom myself, I know how reassuring it is to see your baby thrive, and that’s what I strive to provide for every family I work with.

What are some common conditions in babies that you treat with physical therapy?

I often see babies with torticollis (tightness in the neck), plagiocephaly (flat spots on the head), developmental delays, reflux, colic, constipation and body tension that can make them uncomfortable or limit their movement. I also work with babies who have oral ties or feeding difficulties, which can impact their body alignment and overall development. Each baby is unique, so I focus on understanding their specific needs and tailoring treatment to help them grow and explore their world more freely. 

Can you walk us through a typical baby physical therapy session? What can parents expect?

A typical session begins with a conversation about the baby’s history, including birth, feeding, and current motor milestones. I assess the baby’s movement, posture, and muscle tone through gentle, play-based activities. Then, I use hands-on techniques like stretches, massage, or craniosacral therapy to release tension and support balance. Parents are always involved—I explain what I’m doing, answer questions, and provide simple exercises or positioning tips to continue progress at home. Sessions are designed to be calming and enjoyable for both baby and parent, creating a collaborative and supportive environment.

Can you explain the role of baby physical therapy in addressing conditions like torticollis or plagiocephaly?

Torticollis occurs when a baby’s neck muscles tighten or shorten, leading to a preference for turning their head one way. This can contribute to plagiocephaly, where one side of the head flattens due to uneven pressure. Physical therapy addresses these conditions by identifying underlying tightness or imbalances and using gentle techniques to improve range of motion and symmetry. I guide parents in positioning, stretching, and activities to encourage balanced head movement and support head reshaping. Early intervention is key—it prevents further complications and ensures babies can explore their world freely and comfortably.

What qualifications and certifications do you have in pediatric physical therapy, and how do they make you uniquely qualified to treat babies?

I am a licensed physical therapist with specialized training in pediatric care. In addition to my degree, I have advanced certifications in areas like infant massage, craniosacral therapy (CST/CFT), and bodywork techniques for oral ties. These qualifications allow me to take a holistic approach, addressing the unique needs of infants with conditions like torticollis, plagiocephaly, and body tension. As a mom, I also bring empathy and a deep understanding of the parent-baby connection, which enhances the care I provide.

What advice would you give to parents who may be hesitant about trying physical therapy for their baby?

I understand it can feel overwhelming, but physical therapy for babies is gentle, safe, and play-based. Every session is designed to be soothing and enjoyable for your baby. If you’re hesitant, I encourage you to start with a consultation. We can discuss your concerns, evaluate your baby’s needs, and create a plan together. Early intervention can prevent future challenges, and most parents feel relieved and empowered once they see the benefits.

What tips or recommendations do you have for parents to help support their baby’s physical development at home?

Tummy time is one of the best things you can do—it builds strength and coordination. Make it fun by getting down on their level, singing, or using toys to keep them engaged. Change the way you hold and position your baby throughout the day to encourage different muscle groups. Most importantly, follow their lead and celebrate their efforts, no matter how small. Play and connection are the foundation of healthy development.

Many babies experience delayed milestones. How do you address this issue with physical therapy, and what techniques do you use?

When milestones are delayed, I look at the whole picture—how your baby moves, their muscle tone, and even their environment. My approach is playful and interactive, breaking down movements into smaller steps that your baby can practice and master. I might use techniques like guided movements, stretches, or strengthening exercises, always making sure it feels safe and fun for them. I also work closely with parents to show them how to continue supporting their baby’s progress at home. It’s so rewarding to watch babies gain confidence as they grow stronger and more capable.

How did you become interested in baby physical therapy, and what drew you to this area of practice?

I’ve always had a passion for helping children, but after becoming a mom, I developed a deep appreciation for the complexities of infant development. Witnessing how early challenges, like tension or feeding difficulties, can affect a baby’s growth inspired me to specialize in this field. I love working closely with families, empowering them to support their baby’s journey and seeing the incredible transformations that happen along the way.

Are there any particular challenges or unique considerations you have to take into account when treating babies compared to older children or adults?

Treating babies is both an art and a science. They can’t tell us what’s wrong, so I rely on careful observation, intuition, and gentle techniques to understand and support them. Babies are also constantly changing, so it’s important to adapt the approach to their developmental stage and comfort level. Another key consideration is involving the family—helping parents feel confident and capable is just as important as the hands-on work I do with the baby.

Are there any misconceptions or myths about baby physical therapy that you find particularly frustrating or that you’d like to dispel?

One common misconception is that babies will “grow out” of certain issues, like head preferences or delayed milestones, without intervention. While some challenges may resolve naturally, others can have lasting impacts if not addressed early. Another myth is that therapy might be uncomfortable for babies. In reality, baby physical therapy is gentle and designed to feel like play. It’s all about helping babies thrive in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.

Is physical therapy safe for babies, and are there any potential risks or considerations that parents should be aware of?

Absolutely—physical therapy for babies is very safe when provided by a licensed and trained therapist. Every technique I use is gentle and tailored to your baby’s needs and comfort level. The biggest consideration is starting early when concerns arise, as this allows us to address issues before they become more complex. My goal is always to ensure your baby feels supported, safe, and cared for during every step of their journey.

Where can clients connect with you? 

I do offer 15 minute FREE consultations to address your concerns and questions before we start working together. My website is www.babiesandbeyondpt.com  You can also follow me on my IG @babiesandbeyondpt_

If you’ve been unsure about whether baby physical therapy is right for your little one, I hope this conversation gave you some clarity!

Whether your baby is struggling with tummy time, has tight muscles, or you just want reassurance that they’re hitting milestones, a baby physical therapist can take the stress out of guessing and give you expert guidance.

The best part? Physical therapy isn’t just for babies with major medical concerns—it’s for any child who could benefit from expert support in moving, growing, and thriving.

If you’re in Metro-ATL, be sure to check out Jagruti Hambir for expert guidance on your baby’s physical development!

Click here to learn more about working with Babies and Beyond PT!

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