Regular monitoring, particularly during periods of rapid growth and where concerns exist is important to allow early detection of changes in muscles, bones and joints with the option of earlier intervention if necessary.
Children and young people with neurodisability can have similar growth related orthopaedic and musculoskeletal issues to children that do not have a physical disability. For those with physical impairment, the impact of muscle stiffness/shortening, joint displacement and bony deformity on their functional abilities can be significant and lead to pain as well as decreased ability to participate in day-to-day activities.
Children with cerebral palsy (CP) are followed up under the Cerebral Palsy Integrated Pathway Scotland (CPIPS) programme. This consists of regular standardised assessments of the children's range of movement (performed at a separate clinic by physiotherapists) and a schedule of hip x-rays based on the young person’s age and level of disability.
The purpose of CPIPS is to ensure that children with risk of developing contractures or hip dislocation are detected early enabling timely intervention. The goal is that no child should be affected by severe contractures or hip dislocation and that every child should achieve the best function possible.
Children with CP-like conditions who also have the risk of muscle, joint and bony problems are followed up along the same clinical guidelines.
Children and young people with focal spasticity (increased muscle tone) causing difficulties may be appropriate for targeted Botulinum Toxin-A injections.
We also work closely with a variety of healthcare professionals. There are monthly joint clinics with visiting Paediatric Consultant Neurologist from RHSC Edinburgh for children with complex motor disorders.
Return Appointments
If you have an appointment for a return visit to the clinic and you are unable to attend please call the booking office on 01383 674105 to arrange an alternative date.