What type of consent is required when treating minors in physical therapy?

When treating minors in physical therapy, parental or guardian consent is required because minors are typically not legally capable of providing consent for their own medical treatment. This legal requirement is designed to ensure that a responsible adult, who can make informed decisions about the child's welfare, is involved in the healthcare process.

Parental or guardian consent covers the legal and ethical obligation for the therapist to ensure that the minor's treatment is approved by someone who knows the child’s medical history, current health status, and the risks and benefits of the proposed therapy. Furthermore, this consent process allows parents or guardians to ask questions and express any concerns they may have, facilitating a supportive environment for the child’s therapeutic needs.

While there can be exceptions in emergency situations where immediate care is needed to prevent harm, in typical scenarios where physical therapy is planned or non-emergency, the involvement of a parent or guardian is essential for legal and ethical adherence in healthcare practices.