The Cerebral Palsy Program at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is the only pediatric interdisciplinary cerebral palsy program in Philadelphia. We evaluate and care for more than 500 patients annually. This extensive experience enables us to give our patients the highest level of care. We work very closely with specialists throughout the CHOP network to coordinate care for our patients.

World-class team

Our team members have expertise in every element of the care of children with cerebral palsy. We offer the latest technology and the most innovative approaches to treatment.

Areas of staff expertise include:

• Spasticity management
• Orthopedic surgery
• Physiology of the nervous system
• Scoliosis
• Hip joint disorders
• Mobility issues in infants and young children
• Bracing
• Long-term medical equipment like wheelchairs
• Language acquisition and development
• Feeding and nutrition
• Devices or technology that help people communicate
• Psychosocial support for patients and their families

We strive to provide the fullest range of high-quality care and education for your child and your whole family. We will help you to maximize your child’s potential and quality of life.

Surgical expertise and safety

Orthopedic surgery is an integral part of the range of care our program offers. Your child will be treated by leading experts in spinal and limb surgical care with experience in safely treating the most complex cases.

Our spinal care uses advanced imaging technology that creates highly accurate guidance navigation during spine surgery, which improves safety and accuracy. Our infection prevention techniques during surgery are comprehensive — some of these techniques have been studied and developed here at CHOP.

Our anesthesia team is composed of experts in pediatric cases. They understand the needs of children and promote the best outcomes in surgical care.

Transition to adulthood

With advances in medical technology, children with neuromuscular disorders such as cerebral palsy are living longer and more fulfilling lives than just a few decades ago. We consider how your child's care will extend into adulthood.

We understand that transitioning from a pediatric hospital to an adult setting can be challenging. We have partnered with the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania to provide transitional surgical and rehabilitation care as our patients become adults.

Our social workers assist families in making this transition to adult healthcare and other adult services.

We will be by your family's side every step of the way.