Neuromuscular Disorders

Neuromuscular disorders such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida and muscular dystrophy in children require the specialized skill and care of a pediatric orthopedic surgeon.

Cerebral palsy is a disorder of movement and posture in children that may cause bone and joint deformities. The treatment consists of a combination of physical therapy, medication, bracing and in some cases surgery, depending upon the severity of the disorder.

Spina bifida is a birth defect where the spine bones and nerves at a certain level don’t form and the child is paralyzed from that level down. The treatment consists of physical therapy, bracing or surgery.

Muscular dystrophy is a genetic disorder that causes progressive weakening of the limbs, breathing and heart muscles. It is due to a lack of a key protein that is needed to maintain the proper function of the muscles. The most common form of muscular dystrophy is Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy. Treatment may involve medications, physical therapy, surgery and respiratory care.