Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral Palsy, or C.P., is a term used to describe a condition of motor dysfunction's (problems with movement) due to a non progressive abnormality of the brain which affects between 0.1% and 0.2% of children. In addition to motor problems, some children with C.P. may have problems with sensation, vision, hearing, speech or language, and learning, as well as seizures, mental retardation, behavioral disorders, or difficulties in daily living.

Our Team
Approach Seldom are the services of only one professional sufficient to meet all the needs of a child with CP. For that reason, an interdisciplinary team of professionals from various departments within the hospital is required for diagnosis, identification of related problems, and planning for consistent care.

The Team
Philosophy It is the philosophy of Connecticut Children's C.P. Team to treat each child as an individual who has unique strengths and needs. We try to maximize each child's strengths while minimizing any limitations.

And since each child is a member of a family, it is important to understand the needs of each family, too, incorporating them into all treatment plans. The C.P. Team will provide knowledge, support, and services while working to ensure that the child and family receive the services and benefits available in the community.

Goals
Our ultimate goals in providing services to C.P. families are:

• To provide well coordinated initial and ongoing evaluations
• To develop a comprehensive program of care
• To establish open, shared communication between each child, each family, and the team professionals

The CP Team
Connecticut Children's C.P. Team consists of specialists who blend their different skills and knowledge to achieve comprehensive insight into the needs of each child. Our enlightened approach also includes both child and family.

The Child and Family are encouraged to become involved members of the C.P. Team. They may use any or all of the services offered at Connecticut Children's Medical Center, and the family's role in the process is to gather and share information about the child's problems and progress. The child is encouraged to ask questions and take an active part in the planning of his or her own care.

The Pediatric Neurologist may be the first physician to whom you are referred by your pediatrician to confirm the diagnosis of cerebral palsy. This is done through a complete history and neurological examination. The neurologist, working closely with the pediatrician, is also responsible for the care of children with seizure disorders. Iearning disabilities, and mental retardation.

The Orthopaedic Surgeon evaluates a child's movement and motor function and assesses the need for gait correction through the use of splints, braces, traction, medications, and, where necessary, surgery. In the event that a child has little mobility of his or her own, the orthopaedist will recommend appropriate adaptive equipment to allow for proper positioning and maximum independence. Since it is important to maintain the best motor function possible, an orthopaedic surgeon will follow your child through periods of physical growth and development.

The Clinical Care Coordinator literally coordinates services provided by the various disciplines, ensures continuity of care, interprets and reinforces the plan of care to the child and family, and is available for questions or problem solving during and between clinic visits, as well as during hospitalizations. This nurse also advocates for the child and family and communicates appropriate information to other professionals.

The Primary Nurse in the ambulatory clinic develops an individualized plan of care based on the child's needs and provides families with support and education in the areas of nutrition, skin, bowel/bladder, behavioral concerns, and general growth and development. The Ambulatory nurses collaborate with other health professionals to help meet the needs of both child and family.

The Physical Therapist assesses the child's gross motor skills, gait, muscle tone, range of motion, and equipment needs. The physical therapist makes recommendations concerning these to the family, physician, and the child's treating physical therapist. If a physical therapy program is required, the physical therapist will make recommendations for the provision of services.

The Occupational Therapist evaluates the child's fine motor abilities, including perceptual skills, visual motor skills, and activities of daily living, as well as the child's need for splinting and adaptive equipment. The occupational therapist also works with family, physicians, and the child's treating occupational therapist to obtain optimum levels of function.

The Family Support Staff provides assistance and consultation to address social, behavioral, educational, and family challenges. They also help support the child and the family by providing counseling services (individual, family, and group), behavioral treatment, or stress management strategies, as well as by advocating for financial and programmatic resources. The Family Support Staff complements medical and nursing care by supporting and empowering the family as it takes on the challenges presented by Cerebral Palsy.

The Orthotist is present for consultation on brace prescription, design, and application. Orthoses (braces) may be needed to stabilize joints, improve function, protect a body part, or maintain proper alignment of the spine. The Orthotist also provides input into the design and fabrication of custom orthopaedic seating systems.

Team members are available to meet with families during Ambulatory Clinic appointments and inpatient admissions. All team members encourage the children and families to contact them on an individual basis whenever they wish.

For More Information
Appointment Office: (860) 545.9100
Clinical Care Coordinator: 860.545.9070
Family Support Staff. 860.545.9700
Developmental Therapies OT/PT: 860.545.8600
Orthotics (Brace) Shop: 860.545.9050