Cerebral Palsy and Related Conditions

Cerebral palsy is caused by a brain injury or brain malformation that occurs before or during birth or within the first year of life.

Cerebral palsy commonly causes spasticity -- muscle tightness that’s sometimes accompanied by abnormal movements -- that can affect the arms and legs, as well as posture, balance, and head control. These symptoms can vary greatly from one child to another.

Our team of specialists offers comprehensive care that’s tailored to your child’s unique physical, developmental, emotional, and academic needs in the most convenient way possible.

Physiatrist
A physiatrist focuses on your child’s physical function. They evaluate your child’s abilities and work with you to set goals for rehabilitation physical therapy. They can also recommend braces, other aids, medicines, or procedures to help with spasticity or other issues.

Pediatric Neurodevelopmentalist 
A pediatric neurodevelopmentalist -- a neurologist who has completed additional training in treating disabilities that affect language, movement, senses, and cognition -- focuses on your child’s neurological function. A pediatric neurodevelopmentalist also treats related neurological conditions, helps manage muscle tone and unwanted movements, and addresses developmental and learning concerns. This doctor provides care for your child as they grow and become adults.

Other Specialists
We work with a range of other specialists to to reduce symptoms and improve your child’s quality of life.

• A primary care provider will address preventative and day-to-day medical issues.
   
• Pediatric orthopaedic specialists evaluate and manage the impact of cerebral palsy on your child’s bones, joints, and muscles. This includes spine, hip, and limb deformities that may develop. Orthopedic surgeons work with physiatrists and neurologists to avoid surgery when possible, but are also prepared to offer surgical options when necessary.
   
• Pediatric neurosurgeons perform spinal cord surgery and implant medication pumps.
   
• Physical therapists guide your child through exercises to help reduce pain and increase movement. They also recommend adaptive equipment.
   
• Occupational therapists help your child learn how to accomplish daily tasks and succeed in school.
   
• Speech-language pathologists address communication and feeding/swallowing issues. This may include augmentative and alternative communication options.
   
• Registered dietitians maximize your child’s nutrition and diet and help them manage weight and growth as they age. 

When needed, your child may also be seen by a social worker or referred to pediatric specialists in gastroenterology, ophthalmology, audiology, or orthotics (shoe inserts that help correct problems with walking and standing).

During your child’s first visit, our doctors will:

• Perform a thorough physical exam
• Discuss your family’s goals
• Learn about your child’s health history
• Review any previous imaging scans, such as MRIs of the brain or spine
• Order additional tests, if needed

One Convenient Location
We understand the impact that cerebral palsy and related conditions can have on your child and your family. At our specialized Cerebral Palsy and Related Conditions (CPRC) Clinic at Lenox Baker Children’s Hospital, your child can be seen by several specialists in a single day. Our goals are to keep your medical visits to a minimum and to enable your child’s care team to share information and coordinate treatment.

Access to the Latest Research
As an academic medical center, Duke is committed to staying updated on and bringing to our patients the latest advances in care. For example, our experts have been involved in studying the potential of using cord blood transplants to treat children with cerebral palsy.

Coordinated Care
Our nurse care coordinator can answer your questions and guide you through the process of starting evaluation and treatment. They help you navigate the medical system and manage the variety of health services your child needs. If you are traveling from outside the Triangle area, the care coordinator ensures your child’s local doctors have the information they need to provide follow-up care.