Understanding Neuromuscular Disorders

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Neuromuscular disorders are conditions that affect the nerves and muscles, impacting movement, muscle tone, strength, coordination, and overall function. These conditions may be present at birth (congenital) or acquired later in life. Children with neuromuscular disorders often experience physical challenges and may also face cognitive, sensory, or social difficulties that affect daily participation.

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Every child’s experience is unique, and early, individualized intervention plays a key role in supporting development, independence, and quality of life.

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Neuromuscular Disorders We Support

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Cerebral Palsy (CP):

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect movement and posture due to injury or disruption to the developing brain before, during, or shortly after birth. Children with CP may experience muscle stiffness or weakness, poor coordination, and involuntary movements that impact daily activities.

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Angelman Syndrome:

Angelman syndrome is a genetic condition affecting the nervous system. It is characterized by developmental delays, challenges with movement and balance (ataxia), limited verbal communication, seizures, and sensory processing differences. Children often benefit from structured, repetitive, and play-based therapeutic approaches.

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Hydrocephalus:

Hydrocephalus occurs when excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, increasing pressure. This condition can impact motor development, coordination, balance, and learning. Occupational therapy supports functional skill development and adaptive strategies to improve daily participation.

 

Muscular Dystrophy:

Muscular dystrophy refers to a group of inherited conditions that cause progressive muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass. These changes can affect mobility, endurance, posture, and independence with daily activities.

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Other Neuromuscular Conditions:

We also support children with conditions such as Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), Peripheral Neuropathy, and other neuromuscular or neurological diagnoses that impact functional performance.

 

The Role of Occupational Therapy

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Occupational therapy plays a vital role in helping children with neuromuscular disorders participate more fully in everyday life. Our therapists focus on building functional skills while supporting the child’s physical, sensory, cognitive, and emotional needs.

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OT may support children by addressing:

• Motor Skills Development
  Improving fine and gross motor skills needed for activities such as dressing, feeding, writing, and play

• Adaptive Strategies & Equipment
  Introducing adaptive tools, positioning supports, and environmental modifications to promote independence and safety

• Sensory & Cognitive Support
  Addressing sensory processing challenges and supporting attention, problem-solving, and learning

• Participation & Independence
  Supporting engagement at home, school, and in the community

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Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) Approach

 

Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) is a specialized, hands-on therapeutic approach commonly used with children who have neuromuscular disorders, including cerebral palsy.

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Principles of NDT:

NDT focuses on facilitating more efficient, functional movement patterns while reducing compensatory or inefficient movement. Therapists use guided handling techniques to help children experience improved postural control and movement.

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Goals of NDT:

• Improve postural stability and balance

• Support functional movements such as sitting, standing, walking, and hand use

• Increase independence in daily activities

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Benefits for Children:

Through NDT, children may develop improved muscle tone regulation, coordination, confidence in movement, and greater participation in daily routines.

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Our Holistic Approach to Care

We believe therapy is most effective when it addresses the whole child, not just physical symptoms.

 

Family-Centered Care

Parents and caregivers are an essential part of the therapy process. We provide education, strategies, and support to promote skill carryover into daily routines.

 

Collaborative Care

Our occupational therapists collaborate closely with physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, physicians, educators, and other providers to ensure comprehensive, coordinated care.

 

Individualized Treatment

Each therapy plan is tailored to the child’s unique strengths, challenges, and goals—making therapy meaningful, motivating, and effective.

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Supporting Quality of Life

Beyond skill development, our goal is to foster confidence, resilience, and participation in meaningful activities that enhance overall well-being.

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Our Commitment

Neuromuscular disorders present complex challenges, but with early intervention, individualized occupational therapy, and a collaborative, holistic approach, children can make meaningful progress. Our mission is to support each child in building skills, confidence, and independence—one step at a time.