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Early detection of cerebral palsy (CP) is critical for improving outcomes in children. With an early diagnosis, kids with CP can begin to access developmentally appropriate interventions during the critical time when their brains are developing rapidly. Further, healthcare teams can equip kids and their families with tools and resources that will provide support throughout the lifespan.

Our Cerebral Palsy Center of Excellence at Shirley Ryan ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ÊÓƵ meets the comprehensive needs of pediatric and adult patients with CP and their families. We have a dedicated social worker and program manager focused solely on our patients with CP, while our expert clinical team ¡ª of physicians, nurses and therapists ¡ª provides the best in clinical care.

Our goals at the CP Center of Excellence include:

• Standardizing evidence-based clinical practices for pediatric and adult patients with CP ¡ª from early diagnosis and assessments to therapy interventions, medical management and surgical recommendations based on a patient¡¯s individual needs.
• Promoting and disseminating CP research discoveries to expand understanding of CP and improve patient outcomes.
• Serving as a resource for patients and families throughout the lifespan.
• Gathering and interpreting data surrounding care and outcomes to better inform the medical management and community resources for those with CP.

We offer several clinics at the CP Center of Excellence to support patients as they grow and develop ¡ª with medical care and specialized therapy to promote movement and functional independence at different life stages. The center treats patients at all levels of care, from outpatient appointments and therapy intensives to inpatient rehabilitation as needed.

• Early Motor Development Clinic: This clinic plays a critical role in facilitating the early identification and diagnosis of CP in infants and toddlers experiencing motor delays or developmental challenges. We facilitate collaborative, interdisciplinary rehabilitation evaluations, developmental screening and appropriate referrals for infants and toddlers.
• Complex Movement Disorders Clinic: This clinic serves patients ages 4-20 with medically complex movement disorders, including CP. Our pediatric physiatrists, nurse and social worker collaborate closely with neurosurgery and neurology at the Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children¡¯s Hospital of Chicago to provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, treatments (including surgical options such as selective dorsal rhizotomies, baclofen pump placements, etc.) and rehabilitation to reduce spasticity and promote movement and function.
• Transition Programs: With our expertise in treating both children and adults with CP, we support patients as they transition from childhood into adolescence and adulthood. Our physicians, nurses, therapists and social workers collaborate to provide care for patients through these milestone years. Also, we offer vocational rehabilitation for those entering the workforce.

• Monthly in-person and virtual caregiver support groups ¡ª in English and Spanish ¡ª as well as various training events
• Personalized support, education and resources through the Henry B. Betts, MD, LIFE Center
• Free resources on topics such as infant motor, sensory and communication development, available through our partner organization, . Pathways also provides information about the importance of early intervention and detection

Have questions or want to schedule a visit? Contact the CP Center of Excellence to learn more or request an appointment.