Services

For more information, please contact us via the contact form,

schedule a consult call, or call/text (214) 500-0126.

If you are ready to book your initial evaluation, please click the button below.

We create spaces and environments where every child's communication is heard and valued.

Pediatric Physical Therapy

Developmental pediatric physical therapy focuses on addressing the unique needs of infants, children, and adolescents who experience delays or challenges in their functional movement and participation development.

Adaptive Gymnastics

Adaptive gymnastics involves modifying traditional gymnastics skills, progressions, & equipment to accommodate individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities and neurodivergent people, ensuring their participation in gymnastics activities.

You have questions? We have answers.

What is Adaptive Gymnastics?

Adaptive gymnastics is designed to make gymnastics accessible and enjoyable for individuals with diverse physical, cognitive, and sensory abilities. This approach includes modifications to skills, equipment, and teaching techniques to meet the specific needs of participants. These modifications might include specialized apparatus, adjusted lesson plans, and personalized coaching strategies to support each individual's abilities and goals. The primary aim is to create a supportive and inclusive environment where every participant can engage in gymnastics activities, build skills, and experience the physical and social benefits of the sport.

Benefits:

  • Enhances motor skills and coordination

  • Builds physical strength and flexibility

  • Provides opportunities for social interaction and teamwork

  • Fosters self-confidence and personal growth

  • Promotes sensory integration and regulation

  • Encourages active participation in physical activity

  • Supports the development of life skills, such as following instructions and working in a group

  • Creates an inclusive and supportive environment that celebrates diverse abilities

    Adaptive Gymnastics Options

    1:1 Adaptive Gymnastics or Adaptive Trampoline Lessons: We offer personalized 1:1 adaptive gymnastics and trampoline lessons to cater to the individual needs of each child. These sessions are customized to enhance gymnastics skills, build confidence, and develop motor abilities in a supportive and engaging environment. They can serve as a support or addition to your child’s therapy services, helping them progress in their gymnastics journey.

    Adaptive Gymnastics Class (4:1 Ratio; Student to Teacher): Our Adaptive Trampoline Class is designed for children with physical and cognitive disabilities and neurodivergent children. With a low student-to-teacher ratio of 4:1, we ensure personalized attention and a safe, inclusive space for all participants to enjoy the benefits of trampolining. (This class is provided in partnership with The Rock of Sports & Performing Arts)

If you would like to participate in Adaptive Gymnastics, please contact us for more information via the contact form, schedule a consult call, or call/text (214) 500-0126.

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What is Pediatric Physical Therapy?

Pediatric physical therapy focuses on addressing the unique needs of infants, children, and adolescents who experience delays or challenges in their functional movement and participation development. Physical therapy is designed to optimize motor skills, movement patterns, and overall physical function to support a child's unique growth and development.

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What can physical therapy address?

At Balanced Creations Therapy & Trampoline, our developmental pediatric physical therapy services cover a wide range of conditions and concerns, including but not limited to:

Motor Delays: Addressing delays in gross motor skills such as rolling, sitting, crawling, standing, and walking, running, jumping, hopping, skipping, navigating stairs and environments.

Neurological Conditions: Providing interventions for children with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and developmental coordination disorder.

Orthopedic Conditions: Managing musculoskeletal conditions such as torticollis, plagiocephaly, and toe walking.

Genetic Disorders: Supporting children with genetic disorders that impact their physical development and mobility.

Sensory Integration and Executive Functioning: Addressing sensory processing and motor planning difficulties that affect a child's ability to participate in daily activities and movement.

Balance and Coordination: Improving balance, coordination, and postural control to enhance functional mobility and participation in activities.

Through individualized assessment and treatment plans, our developmental pediatric physical therapists work collaboratively with families to achieve meaningful goals and support each child's unique journey to reaching their full potential through child-led play-based sessions in a neurodiversity-affirming environment.

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What can I expect at the physical therapy initial evaluation? 

This is a one-on-one, in-depth evaluation consisting of an age-appropriate analysis of posture, balance and coordination, flexibility, strength, mobility skills, transitional movements, quality of movements, motor planning, gait/walking quality, and higher-level gross motor skills, if appropriate. You will receive a written report with observational and standardized results outlining your child's strengths and areas that could be improved with physical therapy, demonstration and collaborative education on purposeful play-based activities to be completed throughout the day specific to your child and home, a detailed home exercise program complete with pictures and videos specific to your child and their gross motor goals (as needed), a list of developmentally appropriate toys specific to your child and their goals (as needed), and ongoing concierge support via phone/text/email to ensure success.

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Do I need a referral to begin services?

No, a referral is not required to get started with our services. In the state of Texas, a physical therapist can evaluate and treat for up to 10 business days without a referral. If physical therapy services are expected to extend past this period, Balanced Creations Therapy & Trampoline will reach out to your primary care provider to obtain a referral for you.

Additionally, our Developmental Playgroups are considered wellness services and do not require physician approval to attend.

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Do you take insurance?

No. Our goal to help your child be their unique self without limits, especially without limitations placed by insurance providers regarding number of visits and when those visits can be utilized.  As an out-of-network provider there are no requirements to qualify for therapy, waitlists, prior authorizations, or session caps. All costs are known upfront; those unexpected bills months after rendered services won't happen here!We do not accept insurance, however can take HSA/FSA as payment. We will create a superbill or invoice upon request if you wish to submit for reimbursement through your insurance however reimbursement is not guaranteed.

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Do you offer home visits?

Yes! We are a mobile provider and bring purposeful play-based and child-led development to you! In-home visits are available for Aledo, Annetta, Willow Park, Hudson Oaks, Weatherford, Azle, Texas. If you're ready to book an in-home visit you can do so via our online booking website. If you're outside of the above areas we are happy to help, please contact us via the contact form, schedule a consult call, or call/text (214) 500-0126.

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Where are your clinic locations?

We offer physical therapy and developmental/therapeutic playgroups services at two locations: The Rock of Sport and Performing Arts (76087), and Springbox Farms (76087).

For more information, please contact us via the contact form, schedule a consult call, or call/text (214) 500-0126.

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What form of payment do you accept?

Payment is due at the time of service.

Credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express), debit card, and HSA/FSA cards are accepted.

Cost of services:

Please contact us for pricing via the contact form, schedule a consult call, or call/text (214) 500-0126.

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What age range do you work with?

We cater to children of all ages, typically ranging from infancy to 18 years old. However, we are also equipped to serve adult individuals who may benefit from our services.

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What are your hours of operation?

Our hours of operation vary depending on the day of the week and the facility location. Generally, we schedule treatment sessions between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm Wednesday, Friday & Saturday at The Rock of Sports & Performing Arts, and 10:00 am -6:00 pm on Tuesday & Thursday at Springbox Farms. For specific availability and scheduling questions, please feel free to contact us directly if you need more help. For availability and scheduling inquiries, please contact us via the contact form, schedule a consult call, or call/text (214) 500-0126.

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How long will it take for my child to achieve their goals?

It depends. For more wellness based preventative care, typically, we see families for approximately 2-4 sessions. In some cases, with musculoskeletal concerns and/or gross motor delay with a co-occurring medical diagnosis, the length and frequency of services can vary. We individually create care plans and frequency of services to meet the needs of each child and the family's values. When families are committed to the process, we usually see steady improvement. Families who get the best results are those who work diligently and patiently with their child daily and focus on purposeful play-based activities throughout the day — change is hard and progress is rewarding! If there is a functional plateau or if the situation worsens, we refer to another provider either in addition to our services or instead of our services.

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Resources for Parents and Clinicians

a colorful nebula in space with stars with the words "Why was NASA studying trampolines?" in the foreground.

Why Was NASA Studying Trampolines and What Does It Have to Do with Rehabilitation Therapy?

March 17, 20246 min read

Welcome:

Hello, I'm Dr. Sigourney Weathers. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and a passion for gymnastics, trampoline, and community, I'm here to shake up the traditional approach to pediatric physical therapy and wellness.

With over 30 years of experience in the gymnastics community, including 15+ years as a coach and judge, and 10+ years specializing in inclusive and adaptive gymnastics, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice.

During my career, I noticed a gap in the system—clients completing therapy but still seeking ongoing recreational support and community. Determined to bridge that gap, I founded Balanced Creations Therapy & Trampoline.

At Balanced Creations, we're not just about therapy; we're about fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Our goal is to provide a space where individuals of all abilities can thrive and continue their lifelong health and wellness journey.

Through personalized programs and integrated techniques, including therapeutic trampolining and gymnastics, we're redefining what it means to achieve optimal wellness.

Outside of my professional endeavors, you can often find me spending quality time with my family, staying active through workouts, and indulging in my hobbies, including aerial silk and, of course, trampolining.

I have started this blog to document and research all past and current therapeutic trampoline research. If you would like to get updates each time a new blog becomes available, please subscribe below.

SUBSCRIBE

These blogs will be short and easy to read. I don't want much fluff in them, so if you are here to read about our therapy sessions or my personal life, you have come to the wrong place. Jump on over to IG @balancedcreationstherapy. If you want to read about all things therapeutic trampoline, keep reading. I’m glad you are here!

therapist in crouched position holding a noodle in front of a infant crawling on the trampoline

Introduction:

Trampolines have long been associated with childhood fun and backyard recreation. However, their potential benefits extend far beyond mere entertainment. In a surprising twist, NASA, the renowned space agency, delved into the realm of trampoline research in the 1980s. Their study, "Body acceleration distribution and O2 uptake in humans during running and jumping," sought to uncover the biomechanical effects of trampoline exercise on the human body. While the study's focus may seem unconventional, its findings offer valuable insights that resonate deeply with the field of physical therapy.

Summary of the Study:

The study, titled "Body acceleration distribution and O2 uptake in humans during running and jumping," conducted by A. Bhattacharya et al. in 1980, aimed to determine the distribution of acceleration amplitude and frequency profiles and the corresponding oxygen uptake and heart rate responses during treadmill running and trampoline jumping.

Eight young males participated in the study, performing walking and running exercises on a treadmill at varying speeds and jumping on a trampoline at different heights. Accelerations were measured at three points on the body: the lateral ankle, lumbosacral region of the back, and forehead. Oxygen uptake and heart rate were also recorded during the experiments.

outline of a mans back, hips, and ankle/foot showing where the device was placed on the forehead, lower back and ankle

The results showed that peak accelerations increased with both increased treadmill speed and jumping height. During treadmill exercise, peak acceleration at the ankle consistently exceeded that at the back and forehead. However, during trampoline jumping, acceleration levels were more symmetrically distributed across the body.

Graph

Graph

The study also found that, for similar levels of oxygen uptake and heart rate, the magnitude of biomechanical stimuli was greater with trampoline jumping than with running. This suggests that trampoline jumping imposes higher biomechanical stressors on the body compared to treadmill running.

graph

Additionally, the study observed that the frequency components of acceleration profiles were higher during running and walking than during jumping. Spectral analysis indicated that the frequency content of acceleration waveforms was approximately equal at all three measurement sites during jumping, while it varied during treadmill exercise.

With that said, here are 5 Key Takeaways for rehabilitation therapists using trampolines as a therapy tool. 👊

1. Trampoline induces higher biomechanical stressors

Trampoline jumping induces higher biomechanical stressors on the body compared to treadmill running, making it a potentially effective tool for rehabilitation programs aimed at improving musculoskeletal strength and cardiovascular fitness.

2. Impact forces are transmitted more evenly on trampoline

Symmetrical distribution of acceleration levels during trampoline jumping suggests that impact forces are transmitted more evenly throughout the body, potentially reducing the strain on specific joints.

3. Trampoline can produce smoother & more controlled jumping

The frequency content of acceleration waveforms during trampoline jumping is lower and more uniform compared to treadmill exercise, indicating smoother and more controlled movement patterns.

4. May offer a unique form of stimulus for therapy

Trampoline exercise may offer a unique form of cardiovascular and muscular stimulus for individuals undergoing rehabilitation therapy, particularly those who are in a deconditioned state due to bedrest, immobility, or prolonged sedentary lifestyle.

5. Further research was (and is) needed

Further research is needed to explore the potential benefits of trampoline exercise in specific rehabilitation protocols and to develop safe and effective exercise regimens tailored to individual patient needs.

Limitations of the Study:

One major limitation of the study is its age, as it was conducted in 1980. Since then, there have been advancements in research techniques and equipment, as well as a better understanding of biomechanics and exercise physiology. Therefore, the findings may not fully represent the current state of knowledge in the field. (Want more current research? Subscribe below to get updated on when new review posts are available.)

Conclusions of the Study:

Despite its limitations, the study provides valuable insights into the biomechanical responses of the body during treadmill running and trampoline jumping. Rehabilitation therapists can consider incorporating trampoline exercise into their rehabilitation programs, taking into account the potential benefits and limitations outlined in the study. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and optimize trampoline-based rehabilitation protocols for diverse patient populations.

See you next time!

The NASA study sheds light on the biomechanical responses of the body to trampoline exercise, offering intriguing implications for rehabilitation therapy. By understanding how trampoline jumping affects acceleration distribution, oxygen uptake, and heart rate, rehabilitation therapists can explore innovative approaches to rehabilitation and conditioning. While the study's age may raise questions about its relevance, its fundamental principles remain pertinent in the context of modern physical therapy practices. As we continue to uncover the therapeutic potential of trampolines, we pave the way for new avenues of rehabilitation and wellness.

Read the Journal Article

Bhattacharya, A., McCutcheon, E. P., Shvartz, E., & Greenleaf, J. E. (1980). Body acceleration distribution and O2 uptake in humans during running and jumping. Journal of Applied Physiology: Respiratory, Environmental and Exercise Physiology, 49(5), 881-887. https://doi.org/10.1152/jappl.1980.49.5.881

https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Amit-Bhattacharya-2/publication/15769012_Body_acceleration_distribution_and_O2_uptake_in_humans_during_running_and_jumping/links/541c5d700cf203f155b5b42c/Body-acceleration-distribution-and-O2-uptake-in-humans-during-running-and-jumping.pdf


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Dr. Sigourney Weathers, PT. Copyright © 2024 Balanced Creations Therapy & Trampoline. All Rights Reserved

NASA1980TrampolineRehabilitationCardiovascularStrengthAccelerationDeconditionedWeightlessTherapeutic TrampolineRebound TherapyTherapyPhysical TherapyOccupational TherapyRecreational TherapySpeech TherapyPlay Therapy
Hello, I'm Dr. Sigourney Weathers. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and a passion for gymnastics, trampoline, and community, I'm here to shake up the traditional approach to pediatric physical therapy and wellness.

With over 30 years of experience in the gymnastics community, including 15+ years as a coach and judge, and 10+ years specializing in inclusive and adaptive gymnastics, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice.

During my career, I noticed a gap in the system—clients completing therapy but still seeking ongoing recreational support and community. Determined to bridge that gap, I founded Balanced Creations Therapy & Trampoline.

At Balanced Creations, we're not just about therapy; we're about fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Our goal is to provide a space where individuals of all abilities can thrive and continue their lifelong health and wellness journey.

Through personalized programs and integrated techniques, including therapeutic trampolining and gymnastics, we're redefining what it means to achieve optimal wellness.

Outside of my professional endeavors, you can often find me spending quality time with my family, staying active through workouts, and indulging in my hobbies, including aerial silk and, of course, trampolining.

Dr. Sigourney Weathers, PT

Hello, I'm Dr. Sigourney Weathers. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and a passion for gymnastics, trampoline, and community, I'm here to shake up the traditional approach to pediatric physical therapy and wellness. With over 30 years of experience in the gymnastics community, including 15+ years as a coach and judge, and 10+ years specializing in inclusive and adaptive gymnastics, I bring a wealth of expertise to my practice. During my career, I noticed a gap in the system—clients completing therapy but still seeking ongoing recreational support and community. Determined to bridge that gap, I founded Balanced Creations Therapy & Trampoline. At Balanced Creations, we're not just about therapy; we're about fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment. Our goal is to provide a space where individuals of all abilities can thrive and continue their lifelong health and wellness journey. Through personalized programs and integrated techniques, including therapeutic trampolining and gymnastics, we're redefining what it means to achieve optimal wellness. Outside of my professional endeavors, you can often find me spending quality time with my family, staying active through workouts, and indulging in my hobbies, including aerial silk and, of course, trampolining.

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