Our Services
The Neuromuscular Clinic will provide a comprehensive evaluation of your child and devise a treatment plan based on your child's specific needs. The following services are available through our Clinic:
Diagnostic services
Testing available through the Neuromuscular Clinic:
- Labratory tests.
- Muscle function testing (myometry). Testing by physical and occupational therapists.
- Muscle Ultrasound. Non invasive imaging of skeletal muscle.
- Muscle and nerve biopsy. An important test often used to confirm a diagnosis. A small sample of muscle or nerve tissue is taken by the surgeon under sedation and examined under a microscope.
- Skin biopsy. An outpatient diagnostic procedure performed during an office visit.
- Genetic tests. Tests that evaluate for conditions that have a tendency to run in families.
- Electromyogram (EMG). A test to check if muscle weakness is a result of a muscle or nerve disorder
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). A test that records the electrical activity of the heart, shows abnormal rhythms and detects heart muscle damage.
- Echocardiogram (ECHO).
- X-rays. A test to identify spinal curvature or bone abnormalities.
- DEXA Scan. A test to measure bone density.
- Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs). A test to measure force and capacity of the lungs.
- Sleep Study. This test helps identify insufficient breathing when asleep.
- Nutrition Testing and Feeding Studies.
What to expect at your visit
Your child will be evaluated by several members of our team within the Neuromuscular clinic. This usually starts with the neurologist and physical therapist and may also include the occupational therapist, genetic counselor, dietician and social worker. Consultation from a pulmonary, cardiac or orthopaedic specialist is sometimes requested.
The initial visit often takes 2 hours. We suggest you bring snacks, toys and books to occupy your time.
How to prepare for your visit
Please complete an Enrollment Form and fax or mail to:
Neuromuscular Program Coordinator
The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
Wood Center, 6th Floor
34th Street and Civic Center Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19104
Fax: 215-590-2223
Phone: 215-590-1719
It is important to bring with you any prior testing performed elsewhere, for example MRI scan, muscle biopsy slides, EMG reports, lab test results and physical and occupational therapy reports.
If you require a referral or authorization to be seen at CHOP, please contact your primary care physician at least one week in advance of your appointment and request consultation authorization with neurology, physical therapy and occupation therapy. If you have any questions, pleas call Marissa White at the above number.
Management options
Treatment for your child will be individualized and is based upon:
- Your child's diagnosis (type and extent of condition)
- Your child's age, overall health and medical history
- Safety and effectiveness of treatment choices
- Expectations for the course of the condition
- Your opinion or preference
Your physician will recommend your child for the appropriate intervention. This may include:
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Exercise and stretching program
- Positioning aids; used to help the child sit, lie or stand
- Braces and splints; used to prevent deformity, promote support or provide protection
- Mobility Devices: scooters and wheelchairs
- Medications
- Nutritional counseling
- Psychological counseling
- Pulmonary consultation
- Social work assistance
- Orthopedic surgery
- Cardiology consultation
- Metabolism consultation
- Genetic counseling
- Neuropathology
- Neuroimaging
Contact Us
- 215-590-1719
- Contact Us Online
- Request an Appointment