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Since 1922, we have been providing innovative care to children with muscular and neuromuscular disorders at Shriners Children's.

As a world-renowned leader in providing specialized pediatric medical care, we utilize the latest clinical and scientific research in our comprehensive approach to treatment.

Children with neuromuscular conditions have unique needs that often evolve as the child grows and gets older, or as the condition progresses. These conditions may cause problems with strength and mobility, and lead to the development of secondary medical concerns. We customize our care plans to treat the current needs of the child and to minimize additional conditions from developing. Every family we interact with is guided through the treatment process in a warm, collaborative environment that always puts the child first. Our focus is to help every child meet their potential and live their best life – physically, emotionally and psychologically – during every step of their journey with Shriners Children’s.

Muscular and neuromuscular conditions range in complexity and severity, and they can appear in a number of ways. Every patient deserves an individualized treatment plan that meets their unique needs, and this is why Shriners Children’s embraces a multidisciplinary approach.

Some of the pediatric neuromuscular conditions we routinely treat are:

Specific treatments and services may vary by location. Please contact a specific location for more information.

Support Services

Shriners Children’s support services aim to help children and their families heal, recover, and live a fulfilled and independent life with their condition. The specific muscular and neuromuscular support services your child's health care team recommends will be guided by the type and severity of the condition. Some patients, for example, may benefit from custom orthotics or serial stretch casting, while others thrive after in physical therapy or surgery. Again, every child's needs are different.

Shriners Children’s offers diverse muscular and neuromuscular support services, including:

Our Team

Our team is comprised of some of the world's leaders in the field, including pediatric orthopedic surgeons, hand surgeons, physiatrists, neurosurgeons, neurologists, physical and occupational therapists, and a wide array of other specialists. Together, we're improving the lives of children and helping them fulfill their dreams.

When it comes to treating rare or complicated muscular and neuromuscular conditions, our team of specialists is armed with extensive experience and the most up-to-date research and technology. We provide compassionate, family-centered care that addresses all aspects of well-being.

In a world where you feel like resources are limited, Shriners Children's has the answers. The individualized treatment they provide is not just a one-size-fits-all approach – it is what has allowed my daughter to come as far as she has.
Deborah, patient parent at Shriners Children's Portland
female patient during motion analysis test

Motion Analysis Centers

As a child grows and develops, so does their ability to move. When a child has a condition that changes typical development and makes movement difficult, advanced diagnostic techniques may be necessary to fully understand what’s causing the movement problem. Motion analysis can help us understand the movement of children with neuromuscular, acquired or congenital disorders and develop an appropriate plan of care based on what we learn.

Innovative Treatments

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Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS)

Shriners Children’s Pediatric Orthotic and Prosthetic Services (POPS) designs, fits and manufactures orthotics and prosthetics for children from infants to young adults.

Motion Analysis

The specialists in Shriners Children’s motion analysis centers collect and analyze movement-related data, like gait analysis, to help treat children with neuromuscular, acquired or congenital disorders.

Speech Therapy

The speech therapy services available to patients at Shriners Children’s benefit children from birth through adolescence who have difficulties with communication and swallowing.

Respiratory Treatments

Respiratory treatments are often necessary following surgery to strengthen the lungs and prevent infection. Respiratory therapists will provide exercises and treatments patients can do in the hospital and at home.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists at Shriners Children's help kids be as independent as possible, focusing on what is important to them and what they love to do in their daily lives.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy at Shriners Children's helps children build confidence and strength, focusing on what is important to them and what they love to do in their daily lives.

Next Steps

Request an Appointment

Families and caregivers seeking treatment should start by contacting us for an appointment.

Log in to the Patient Portal

Parents and guardians of existing patients can email, request records, schedule appointments and more.

Refer a Patient

Physicians and healthcare providers can request appointments, start transfers or contact us with questions.