Conditions We Treat

Children can be born with a motility disorder or develop one later. Some motility disorders are caused by a problem with the child’s anatomy or by another medical condition. Others are caused by poor habits learned during potty training.

The Neurogastroenterology and Motility Program team evaluates and treats children with a wide range of motility disorders and conditions that affect motility.

• Abdominal pain: Refers to pain felt anywhere along the GI tract from the esophagus to the bowels 
• Achalasia
• Anorectal malformations
• Chronic constipation
• Chronic diarrhea
• Dysphagia
• Esophageal atresia
• Fecal incontinence (encopresis)
• Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
• Gastroparesis: Delayed emptying of the stomach
• Hirschsprung disease
• Neurogenic bowel: Loss of normal bowel function
• Intestinal pseudo-obstruction: When intestinal nerve or muscle problems prevent food, fluid and air from moving through the GI tract

From this list, the most common conditions we treat are chronic constipation and dysphagia, which is difficulty swallowing. However, we’re experts at treating even the rarest GI conditions. And our motility program coordinator helps families schedule surgery and other appointments, as well as provides follow-up education and information as needed. The coordinator will ensure you and your child know what to expect at every step along your treatment journey.