Programs & Services

We utilize state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic techniques to accurately establish a diagnosis and create the most effective care plan for your child. Services include:

• Advanced neuroimaging, including CT (computed tomography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), and MRS (magnetic resonance spectroscopy)
• Genetic testing
• Motion analysis: Our sophisticated motion analysis lab is located in Phoenix Children’s orthopedics department. Doctors use interactive technologies to evaluate gait (walking patterns), stair climbing and other motions.
• Multispecialty evaluation and consults
• Neuropsychological evaluation
• Presurgical evaluation
• Screening and diagnostic testing
• Second opinions

Medical Therapies

Your child’s doctor may prescribe medication to relax muscles or manage abnormal movements. Other therapy options for specific conditions include:

• Injection treatments – For some kids, botulinum toxin and phenol injections to targeted muscles or nerves may help to reduce stiff muscles and abnormal movements.

Surgical Therapies

Orthopedic doctors, neurosurgeons and other specialists offer these and other surgical options for certain children and conditions:

• Deep brain stimulation (DBS) – This procedure treats uncontrollable muscle contractions (dystonia), tremors or other conditions. Surgeons insert tiny electrodes, and our neurologists program a tiny computer to stimulate parts of the brain that control movement.
• Intrathecal baclofen pump (ITB) – The goal of ITB therapy is to ease severe muscular tightness (spasticity or dystonia) and abnormal involuntary movements with a surgically implanted, programmable pump that delivers continuous muscle-relaxant medication directly into the brain and spine, where it is needed most. 
• Orthopedic procedures – As children develop, doctors may recommend muscle, bone and joint procedures to correct deformities or prevent other problems.
• Selective dorsal rhizotomy (SDR) – Neurosurgeons operate on nerves that contribute to spasticity, or stiff muscle tone, to help improve leg function, walking and ease of care.

Rehabilitative Care

The Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) program at Phoenix Children’s offers a home base and comprehensive care for children with disabilities. PM&R doctors (physiatrists) direct rehabilitative care for children with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Services include:

• Medical prescriptions
• Splints, braces and assistive devices
• Exercise and rehabilitative therapies

Some children require intensive, residential care in our acute inpatient rehabilitation program. We use the latest equipment, technologies and therapies, including guided exercise programs that help ease movement, retrain muscles and build strength.

The right tools can offer support and help kids to move freely, safely and comfortably. In our Seating and Mobility Clinic, our team of experts focus on evaluations, positioning and use of durable medical equipment such as:

• Wheelchairs and mobility strollers
• Devices such as gait trainers and standers
• Complex bath and positioning equipment

Outpatient Therapy

Recovery and improvements continue through outpatient therapy with, on average, three weekly visits for at least six months. Our case manager will help you with arrangements, either through Phoenix Children’s outpatient therapy or closer to home if that is more convenient.

It might take a year or more until your child has fully improved. If there are still areas of tightness or deformity, your child’s doctor may discuss orthopedic surgery.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapies (CBT)

At Phoenix Children’s, psychologists and therapists can offer:

• Assistance with developmental and learning disorders
• Behavioral therapy, counseling and guidance
• Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics (CBIT), which teaches coping strategies and habit reversal
• Referrals for specialized care

Psychiatric Care

Movement disorders often don’t just impact movement. Psychiatric services can play an important role in diagnosing and treating some children with Tourette syndrome and other conditions. Our pediatric psychiatry specialists help children with emotional, behavioral, educational, or other concerns.

Injection Treatments

Phoenix Children’s is the only location in Arizona offering a full array of targeted injection treatments such as botulinum and phenol. These treatments ease muscle stiffness related to movement disorders arising from cerebral palsy, stroke or other conditions involving the brain and spinal cord.

Treatment options at Phoenix Children’s include the latest medical approaches to managing movement disorders and preventing potential complications as kids grow and develop.