Pediatric Rehabilitation
Among the pediatric conditions where PM&R is
involved are Cerebral Palsy, Spina Bifida, Birth Brachial Plexus Palsy, and
Torticollis. Physiatrists manage children with traumatic brain injury,
congenital and acquired amputations, and both acute and long-term spinal cord
injury. They also manage children with muscle diseases such as Duchenne
muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy, pediatric burns, and a myriad
of congenital disabilities.
Using medication and physical therapy, physiatrists
participate in the care of children with these neuro-muscular conditions.
Depending on the case, PM&R physicians may prescribe physical therapy to
relax the muscles and improve strength. With neurological disorders—Cerebral
Palsy, Birth Brachial Plexus Palsy and Spina Bifida—PM&R
doctors use electrodiagnostic medicine to determine the degree of spasticity
and damage, then treat the condition. Pediatric physiatrists also provide
prescriptions for durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs, bracing, and
communication devices.
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