More Than Words | RTS Blog

It's Everyone's Halloween….

With Halloween upon us, please keep in mind, a lot of little people will be visting your home.  Be accepting.  The child who is grabbing more than one piece of candy may have difficulties with fine motor skills.  The child who takes a while to pick out one piece of candy may have motor planning problems.  The child who does not say “trick or treat” or “thank you” may be nonverbal.  The child who looks disappointed when they see your bowl of candy might have a food allergy.  The child who is not wearing a costume at all might a sensory processing disorder.  Be nice.  Be patient.  It’s everyone’s Halloween.

  Filed under: Advocacy, Awareness, Raleigh Therapy Services


Q and A with a Raleigh Therapy Services Physical Therapist

October is physical therapy month and so in honor of this, we decided to a Q and A with one our very own physical therapists, Whitney Woodhull-Smith, DPT.  Whitney has been with RTS for over 2 years and has served many children and their families.  Her experience is vast and she is extremely knowledgeable in her field.  We are so proud to have Whitney as a part of the RTS team!

Q: What do pediatric physical therapists do?

 A:  Pediatric physical therapists work with kids of all ages to help them with their gross motor milestones, strength, and mobility. Regardless of their age or level of function the goal is to achieve their highest potential and have fun while doing it. On any given day I can help a child learn to crawl, walk, go up stairs, propel a wheelchair, or pedal a tricycle. 

Q: Why did you decide to become a physical therapist?

I have always wanted to work with kids and became interested in physical therapy towards the end of high school as I was exploring different health related careers. I liked the hands on aspect of physical therapy and knew there would be opportunities to help children in this field.

 Q: What do you love the most about your job?

A: I love helping kids! It’s very rewarding to help a child learn to walk! It’s also fun that I get to be silly and sing songs and play all day.

 Q: What is your favorite toy to use in therapy?

A: Puzzles and bubbles

 Q: What do you like do outside of work?

A: Exercise, read, spend time with family and friends, cook, and cheer on the Tarheels!

Q: What’s your favorite thing to eat?

 A:  Mexican food and ice cream

Q: What is your favorite ACC team?

A: UNC- Go Heels!

  Filed under: Awareness, Physical Therapy, RTS Team


Eating Smart and Moving More

~Submitted by Whitney Woodhull-Smith, DPT-Raleigh Therapy Services Physical Therapist

Eat Smart, Move More!

Childhood obesity is a growing epidemic in North Carolina and the United States. Physical activity is one of the key lifestyle factors that can help you and your children achieve and maintain a healthy weight. 

Please visit www.eatsmartmovemorenc.com for more information. 

A take home message to apply to your every day life from this great site: “5-3-2-1-Almost None”

  • 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables daily
  • 3 structured meals daily – eat breakfast, less fast food, and more meals prepared at home
  • 2 hours or less of TV or video games daily
  • 1 hour or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily
  • Limit sugar-sweetened drinks to “almost none”

  Filed under: Awareness, Physical Therapy, RTS Team, Therapy Ideas