A cerebral palsy diagnosis can be overwhelming. Children who have this disorder may have problems with movement, muscle tone, posture and balance. Many parents have questions and concerns about medical care, coping with daily life and where to turn for support.
Your child can get the medical care and emotional support they need at the Cerebral Palsy Center at St. Louis Children’s Hospital. We treat infants, children and adolescents with a comprehensive and compassionate focus on your child’s total well-being.
St. Louis Children’s Hospital Cerebral Palsy Center: Why Choose Us?
St. Louis Children’s Hospital is consistently ranked among the nation’s best pediatric hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. Our Cerebral Palsy Center is internationally recognized and provides a wide range of non-invasive and surgical options for cerebral palsy.
At our center, you will find:
- Leading treatments: We are the pediatric teaching hospital for Washington University School of Medicine which means we are up to date on the latest medical research. At our facility, your child receives the more advanced treatments in pediatric cerebral palsy care. Learn more about our cerebral palsy services and treatments.
- Multiple experts in one place: Our team includes a range of medical specialists who are leaders in their field. You’ll get exceptional, advanced care right here.
- Help navigating life: Families have an opportunity to meet with a social worker. Our social worker can help link your family to resources in the home, school and community settings, as well as provide emotional support.
- A unique sports program: Physical activity builds self-confidence and strength. That’s why we offer an adaptive sports program where we can help children with cerebral palsy find the right activity for them.
Your Child’s Independence Is Our Goal
Our goal is to help your child reach their maximum level of independence. Here’s how:
- Communication is key: We want your child to express their wants and needs. Our physicians, therapists and other providers listen. Then we develop recommendations that help your child be as independent and healthy as possible.
- Mobility matters: Ideally, we want your child to be able to move without assistance from others. We can help that goal become a reality with physical activity. Your child can take part in our unique sports and rehabilitation program for children with cerebral palsy.
- Medical excellence: Our physicians, therapists and other experts work with children with cerebral palsy every day. With our access to ongoing clinical research and leading-edge technology, we provide your child with exceptional, advanced care.
Cerebral Palsy Care Takes Teamwork
Cerebral palsy can affect many different areas of life. Your child may need help with speech and swallowing. They may also need help with bracing or a wheelchair. That’s why children with cerebral palsy need multiple care providers. When all of them combine their expertise, you get amazing results. That’s why our team makes collaboration a priority.
Our neurologists work closely with the other experts who care for your child — whether it’s a physical therapist, orthotist, social worker, neurosurgeon, or orthopedic surgeon. We believe the best cerebral palsy care happens when all of our providers focus on the same result: your child’s total well-being.
Make Your Appointment at the Cerebral Palsy Center
If you’re a new patient, you’ll need a referral for care at our Cerebral Palsy Center. Please ask your physician to send us a referral before your first visit.
For more information on the diagnosis and treatment of cerebral palsy call 314.454.5437 or 800.678.5437 or email us.
We offer world-class care to children thanks in part to generous gifts from hundreds of people who have joined us in making health care better for all children. This philanthropic support enables us to fulfill our mission to do what's right for kids.