Children with muscular and neuromuscular conditions have varied care needs that are constantly changing with age, growth, and in some cases progression of the condition. Each condition ranges in complexity and severity and can present in any number of ways. These conditions may cause problems with strength and mobility and lead to the development of secondary medical concerns.
We customize our care plans to treat and support the current and unique needs of your child, which is why Shriners Children's embraces a multidisciplinary approach. Every family we interact with is guided through the treatment process in a warm, collaborative environment that always puts the patient first. Our focus is to help every child meet their potential and live their best life – physically, emotionally and psychologically – during every step of their journey with Shriners Children's.
Muscular dystrophy refers to a group of rare diseases that cause muscle weakness or loss of muscle mass. Although there is not currently a cure for this disease, individualized treatments can slow its progression and help with your child's symptoms.
Throughout your child's course of care, there will be a number of care team members who all bring their own specialty to the table to assist in your child's treatment. These specialists vary at each location, but can include: pediatric neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, pediatric rehabilitation specialists, nurses, nurse practitioners; physical, occupational and speech therapists; psychologists, RN care coordinators, social worker care coordinators and clinical dieticians. We also have the ability to make adjustments to wheeled mobility devices and utilize our in-house orthotists to help with bracing needs.
Our focus is to maximize your child's function and make everyday tasks easier for your family.
We understand that learning to support your child with muscular dystrophy can be challenging for you as a caregiver, and we will be here every step of the way to provide support and answer any questions you have throughout this process.
Learn more below about treatment options and support services for muscular dystrophy.
Specific treatments and services may vary by location. Please contact a specific location for more information.
Some of the pediatric neuromuscular conditions we routinely treat are:
At Shriners Children's, we treat the child, not the condition. We focus on their unique physical, psychological and emotional needs; and at the direction of our pediatric specialists, work to provide the very best wraparound care available anywhere.
The best medical support services are ones that help patients and their families continue working toward adjustment, healing and recovery. The specific muscular and neuromuscular support services your child's health care team recommends will be guided by the type and severity of the condition. Some patients, for example, may benefit from custom orthotics or serial stretch casting, while others thrive after undergoing physical therapy or surgery. Again, every child's needs are different.
Shriners Children's offers diverse muscular and neuromuscular support services, including:
We knew our son was in the best hands, receiving the best care, and I’ll always be grateful. I am thankful for our health and the team that loved him like their own.
Shriners Children's provides specialty health care to children around the world. We offer a comprehensive range of treatments, services and support to improve the quality of our patients’ lives and help them reach their full potential.
