Happy Fun Fact Friday! Did you know that YOUR spinal cord stops growing at FOUR years of age?

Navigating pediatric neurology and neurosurgery with expertise and care.  Schedule a consultation today to ensure your child's neurological well-being is in the best hands.  #PediatricNeurology #NeurosurgeryCare #ChildHealth

Happy Giving Tuesday! On this day of generosity, we're sending warm wishes your way! At NJPNI, giving back is a part of our DNA, and to celebrate, we're thrilled to announce a special Gift Basket Giveaway winner! Thank you for joining us in the spirit of giving. Let's continue making a positive impact together! #GivingTuesday #SpreadKindness #GiveawayJoy

NJPNI: November 2023 Newsletter - The Brain Wave - More News! - https://mailchi.mp/njpni/november-2023-more-news

Empowering young minds and fostering neurological wellness at New Jersey Pediatric Neuroscience Institute. From comprehensive evaluations to advanced treatments, we're dedicated to providing specialized care for your child's neurological health.  #PediatricNeurology #ChildHealth #NJNeuroScience

Meet our NJPNI Providers! Expert neurosurgeons, neurologists, nurse practitioners, therapists, orthotists, and dietitians at NJPNI are dedicated to comprehensive care for pediatric neurological and neurosurgical needs. Since 2009, we've supported families with diverse diagnoses, providing high-rated care in NJ and NY. Family involvement is central to our approach, ensuring tailored support. With offices, telehealth, and a commitment to expedited care, we're here for YOU. Discover compassionate care that goes beyond medicine. #NJPNIProviders #PediatricCare #HolisticHealth

 This Thanksgiving, immense gratitude to our NJ Pediatric Neuroscience Institute family – patients, staff, and providers alike. Your strength, commitment, and expertise shape the heart of our care. In a year full of changes, we're especially thankful for each thread of support and resilience. Wishing everyone a joy-filled and grateful Thanksgiving!  #ThanksgivingGratitude #NJNeuroFamily #GratefulHeart

Pediatric Movement disorders can arise from various factors, including stressful circumstances, psychological issues, or physiological causes. While some of these disorders may resolve on their own without the need for treatment, others can significantly impact a child's daily life, hindering their performance at home or school. In such cases, it is crucial for parents' guidance from a pediatric neurologist. Children with autism spectrum disorders often exhibit repetitive movements or unusual postures as a form of communication. While autism itself doesn't directly cause abnormal movement disorders, these behaviors can result from impaired language function in affected children. As a parent, prioritizing your child's health is paramount. If you observe concerns related to your child's motor skills or coordination, seeking specialized care becomes essential. This article will delve into pediatric movement disorders, their impact on children, and why consulting experts at NJPNI's Pediatric Movement Disorders Center could be the optimal choice for your child's well-being.

What Pediatric Movement Disorder Affects Children the Most?

Pediatric movement disorders encompass a range of conditions that can affect a child's ability to control their movements effectively. Among the various movement disorders, two are commonly seen in children: Parkinsonism and Ataxia.

Parkinsonism in Children

While Parkinsonism is typically associated with older adults, it can also affect children. Pediatric Parkinsonism is a rare condition characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement). These symptoms can significantly impact a child's daily life, making it challenging to perform tasks like walking, writing, or even playing. Understanding and managing pediatric Parkinsonism requires specialized expertise, which is available at NJPNI's Pediatric Movement Disorders Center.

Ataxia in Children

Ataxia is another movement disorder seen in children, which affects their coordination and balance. Children with ataxia may have difficulty walking steadily, controlling their hand movements, or maintaining posture. Ataxia can result from various underlying causes, including genetic conditions or neurological disorders. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for children with ataxia to optimize their development and quality of life.

What Is the Approach to Pediatric Movement Disorder?

Understanding and managing pediatric movement disorders require a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. Here are some essential aspects of addressing these disorders:

• Early Diagnosis: Timely diagnosis is vital to initiate appropriate treatment and support. Parents and caregivers should be vigilant about recognizing unusual movements or signs of motor dysfunction in their children.
• Specialized Evaluation: Consultation with a pediatric neurologist or movement disorder specialist is essential. These experts have the knowledge and experience to assess the child's condition thoroughly.
• Diagnostic Tests: Depending on the suspected disorder, various diagnostic tests such as brain imaging, genetic testing, and electromyography (EMG) may be required to pinpoint the underlying cause.
• Customized Treatment Plans: Once the diagnosis is confirmed, a tailored treatment plan is developed. Treatment options may include medication, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and in some cases, surgical interventions.
• Long-Term Management: Pediatric movement disorders often require ongoing management and support. Regular follow-up appointments and adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary to address the evolving needs of the child.
• Supportive Care: Families and caregivers play a crucial role in providing emotional support and assisting with therapy exercises and medications.

Get Specialized Care at NJPNI: The Pediatric Movement Disorders Center

When it comes to your child's health, you want the best care available. NJPNI's Pediatric Movement Disorders Center is a specialized facility dedicated to diagnosing and treating pediatric movement disorders with expertise and compassion.

Why Choose NJPNI's Pediatric Movement Disorders Center?

• Expertise: Our center is staffed with experienced pediatric neurologists and movement disorder specialists who focus exclusively on diagnosing and treating children with movement disorders.
• State-of-the-Art Diagnostic Tools: We have access to advanced diagnostic tools and technologies, ensuring accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
• Multidisciplinary Approach: Our team collaborates closely with other healthcare professionals, including physical therapists, occupational therapists, and genetic counselors, to provide comprehensive care.
• Individualized Care: We understand that each child is unique, and we tailor our treatment plans to meet their specific needs, taking into account their age, symptoms, and underlying causes.
• Supportive Environment: We offer a supportive and caring environment for both children and their families, guiding them through every step of the journey to improved movement and well-being.

Conclusion

Pediatric movement disorders can present challenges for children and their families. Early diagnosis and specialized care are essential to help children achieve their full potential and improve their quality of life. If you suspect that your child may be experiencing a movement disorder, don't hesitate to seek help from a pediatric movement disorder specialist at NJPNI's Pediatric Movement Disorders Center. Our team is dedicated to providing the expertise and support needed to navigate these complex conditions and help your child thrive. Your child's health and well-being are our top priorities.

Although we're a week overdue, we want to take a moment to express our deep appreciation for our incredible Nurse Practitioners. Your dedication and expertise are the heartbeat of our pediatric care. Thank you for being the unsung heroes who make a real difference every day!  #BelatedGratitude #NursePractitionerAppreciation #HealthcareHeroes #BetterLateThanNever

Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, which can put pressure on the brain tissues. It can affect individuals of all ages, including toddlers. Timely and appropriate treatment is crucial for managing pediatric hydrocephalus and preventing potential complications. In this article, we will explore the top 5 treatment options for hydrocephalus in toddlers.

Here are top 5 treatment options for hydrocephalus your Toddler 

Hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, leading to increased pressure. Here are five common treatment options:

1. Shunt Placement

Shunt placement is one of the most common and effective treatments for hydrocephalus in toddlers. A shunt is a thin, flexible tube that is surgically inserted into the brain to divert excess CSF away from the brain to another part of the body, usually the abdominal cavity or a chamber within the heart. This helps regulate the fluid buildup, relieving pressure on the brain. Shunts come in various types, including ventriculoperitoneal (VP) and ventriculoatrial (VA) shunts. The choice of shunt depends on the specific needs of the child and the surgeon's recommendations. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the shunt's function and make adjustments if needed.

2. Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)

Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) is a surgical procedure that offers an alternative to shunt placement, particularly in cases where shunt placement may not be the preferred option. During ETV, a small hole is made in the third ventricle of the brain, allowing CSF to flow more freely, relieving the buildup of fluid. ETV is suitable for some pediatric hydrocephalus cases, but not all. It is essential to consult with a pediatric neurosurgeon to determine if ETV is a viable treatment option for your toddler.

3. Monitoring and Adjusting Shunts

If your child has already undergone shunt placement, it is crucial to understand that shunts may require monitoring and occasional adjustments throughout their lifespan. As a child grows, the shunt may need to be lengthened or replaced to accommodate their changing anatomy. Regular check-ups with a neurosurgeon are necessary to ensure the shunt functions correctly and to address any potential complications promptly.

4. Medication

In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage the symptoms associated with hydrocephalus. However, it's important to note that medication cannot cure hydrocephalus but can help control related issues such as seizures or headaches. The choice of medication and its effectiveness will depend on the individual child's condition and the neurologist's recommendations. Medication is often used in conjunction with other treatment options.

5. Surgery for Underlying Causes

In certain instances, hydrocephalus may result from an underlying condition or blockage within the brain that needs surgical correction. Surgical procedures aimed at addressing these underlying causes may be necessary. For example, if a tumor is blocking the flow of CSF, surgery to remove the tumor may alleviate the hydrocephalus. Read more about pediatric hydrocephalus:  All About Hydrocephalus - New Jersey Pediatric Neuroscience Institute

Do Children Recover from Hydrocephalus?

The outcome of hydrocephalus treatment in children varies depending on the severity of the condition and the timeliness of intervention. Many children with hydrocephalus go on to lead healthy lives with appropriate treatment and follow-up care. However, it's important to recognize that hydrocephalus is a chronic condition that often requires ongoing management. Regular check-ups with pediatric neurosurgeons and neurologists are essential to monitor the child's progress and make any necessary adjustments to their treatment plan.

Conclusion

Pediatric hydrocephalus requires specialized care and treatment tailored to the individual child's needs. The top 5 treatment options for hydrocephalus in toddlers include shunt placement, Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV), monitoring and adjusting shunts, medication, and surgery for underlying causes. Each child's case is unique, and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a team of pediatric specialists. For expert care in pediatric neurosurgery, consider reaching out to the New Jersey Pediatric Neuroscience Institute. Their dedicated team of professionals specializes in the treatment of pediatric hydrocephalus and can provide the guidance and support your child needs on their journey to better health.