With round-the-clock medical care and therapies designed just for children, MU Health Care’s expert inpatient rehabilitation team helps kids regain strength, skills and confidence.

After a serious illness, injury or surgery, children may need extra time and specialized therapy before returning home. Our pediatric inpatient rehabilitation team provides 24/7 medical care alongside physical, occupational and speech therapy designed just for kids.

Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation at MU Health Care

Our pediatric inpatient rehab team works closely with families and caregivers to create a personalized treatment plan that helps your child rebuild strength, improve mobility and regain daily living skills in a safe, supportive environment. 

Children ages 3 months to 18 years may benefit from inpatient rehab at MU Health Care if they have:

• Deconditioning (loss of physical or cognitive abilities due to inactivity) after a long hospitalization
• Genetic conditions such as muscular dystrophy
• Motor conditions such as cerebral palsy
• Neurologic injuries or illnesses, including brain tumors, strokes or brain injuries
• Orthopaedic injuries or illnesses
• Severe illness after a prolonged hospital stay
• Spina bifida
• Traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries

Is My Child a Candidate for Inpatient Rehabilitation?

To qualify for admission into our pediatric inpatient rehab program, children must be hospitalized and able to participate in and benefit from a rehab plan, which includes a minimum of three hours of therapy per day, five days a week.

We accept referrals from within the MU Health Care system as well as outside hospitals, but all inpatient admissions must be approved before transfer. Please call the referral number at 573-882-2446 for more information.

A Family-Focused Approach to Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation

At MU Health Care, we provide inpatient pediatric rehabilitation in a setting designed for kids, with a care plan built around your child’s unique needs. 

Our program is located within mid-Missouri’s only dedicated children’s hospital, offering:

• A team of pediatric experts — including physical, speech and occupational therapists, nurses and child life specialists — all in one place.
• Private patient rooms to allow parents to stay overnight and participate in daily care.
• Seamless access to inpatient and outpatient rehab services.

Depending on your child’s needs, their care team may also include:

• Pediatric physiatrists and neuropsychologists.
• Registered dietitians and social workers.
• Additional specialists focused on developmental, behavioral or emotional support.

What Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation Includes

Children in our inpatient rehab program participate in multiple therapy sessions each day, with a team focused on progress and comfort. 

Here’s what that care may include:

• Physical therapy: Helps improve mobility, strength, endurance, balance, posture and coordination.
• Occupational therapy: Focuses on daily tasks like feeding, dressing, social skills and using assistive devices.
• Speech-language therapy: Supports communication, language development and swallowing.
• Play-based therapy: Age-appropriate play and activities help motivate kids and make therapy more effective.

Continuing Care After Child Inpatient Rehab

Before your child leaves inpatient care, you’ll receive training and support to make the transition home as smooth as possible. If continued care is needed, we’ll help set up outpatient therapy to keep your child’s progress. 

Your child may also be referred to our Tiger Intensive Therapy Program, a specialized outpatient program that brings together physical, occupational and speech therapy to support their progress.

Why Choose MU Health Care for Pediatric Inpatient Rehabilitation

• Specialized pediatric care, all in one place: As part of mid-Missouri’s only dedicated children’s hospital, we offer inpatient rehab care in a setting built for kids with access to more than 30 pediatric specialties.
• Extensive experience with complex needs: Each of our board-certified pediatric rehabilitation specialists brings more than 20 years of experience supporting children with a wide range of conditions and recovery goals.
• Seamless, team-based support: From physical, occupational and speech therapists to dietitians, neuropsychologists and social workers, we coordinate your child’s care across specialties so everyone is informed and your child receives the best care plan.
• Family involvement from day one: Parents are encouraged to stay on-site and be part of therapy sessions, with private patient rooms and training that helps you feel prepared for the transition home.
• Care that continues beyond discharge: We offer a full range of follow-up services, including outpatient rehab and our Tiger Intensive Therapy Program, to keep up your child’s momentum after inpatient care.