Pediatric neuromuscular disorders: Comprehensive care for children and their families

UW Health Kids specialists assess and treat children with many types of neuromuscular disorders. These conditions affect nerves in the body and can cause muscles to weaken and waste away. Many times, neuromuscular disorders are genetic.

Our team of experts works together to care for your child. We tailor our services to each patient, focusing on their physical, emotional and psychological needs. Our goal is to help children live as fully and as well as they can. Through our UW Health Kids Neuromuscular Disorders Clinic, children can receive all services in one place at the same time.

Neuromuscular disorders affect nerves and muscles and disrupt the communication between the two. We treat many types of these conditions, including:

Neuromuscular disorders can affect children in many ways. To help us meet all your child’s needs, we use a team approach to care. Pediatric experts in orthopedics, pulmonary medicine and rehabilitation medicine work together to develop your child’s care plan and manage their treatment. They work with other specialists, including:

• Cardiologists

• Child life specialists

• Genetic counselors

• Neurologists

• Nurses

• Occupational therapists

• Physical therapists

• Registered dietitians

• Respiratory therapists

• Social workers

• Speech therapists

In many cases, there is no cure for neuromuscular disease. But we can offer treatments that help children feel and function better. Because every child is different, every child’s treatment could be, too. Often, treatment needs change over time.

The treatments and services we offer include:

• Assistive devices, including wheelchairs and robotic technology to help children with movement and daily activities

• Breathing support and help with airway clearance

• Connection to the Muscular Dystrophy Association

• Counseling and support groups

• Gene therapy for spinal muscular atrophy (Zolgensma)

• Genetic counseling

• Inpatient rehabilitation

• Medication

• Nutritional support

• Occupational therapy

• Physical therapy

• Speech therapy

• Splinting and bracing

• Surgery to correct scoliosis or improve physical function

The UW Health Kids Neuromuscular Disorders Clinic is located in the American Family Children’s Hospital in Madison, Wis.

These resources can help you learn more about neuromuscular disorders and caring for your child: