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 significantly affect a child's ability to control their movements, impacting their daily life, school performance, and overall well-being. These disorders may stem from physiological, psychological, or neurological causes and often require expert evaluation and treatment. At New Jersey Pediatric Neuroscience Institute (NJPNI), our Pediatric Movement Disorders Center provides specialized care for conditions like spasticity, dystonia, chorea, tcs and ataxia in children. This article explores the most common movement disorders in children, their symptoms, and the importance of consulting a pediatric movement disorder specialist.

What Are Pediatric Movement Disorders?

Pediatric movement disorders refer to a range of neurological conditions that disrupt a child’s ability to perform coordinated, smooth, and purposeful movements. These disorders may include involuntary movements or difficulties initiating or controlling voluntary motions. Some childhood movement disorders start in infancy, while other disorders present in toddlers, or even later in life.  Some movement disorders are caused by genetic or metabolic factors, and others may be caused by brain damage caused by premature birth, hyperbilirubinemia or jaundice, trauma, tumors or infections.

Common Pediatric Movement Disorders

Spasticity in Children

Spasticity affects a child’s coordination and balance. Children with this disorder may experience:

• Tightness in the muscles
• Toe walking
• Unsteady walking
• Muscle contractures
• Difficulty controlling hand movements
• Challenges maintaining posture

Chorea in Children

Chorea affects a child’s coordination and motor control. Children with this disorder may experience:

• Uncontrolled movements
• Difficulty with fine and gross motor skills
• Excessive mvement
• Difficulty controlling hand movements

Ataxia in Children

Ataxia affects a child’s coordination and balance. Children with this disorder may experience:

• Unsteady walking
• Difficulty controlling hand movements
• Challenges maintaining posture

Ataxia often stems from genetic conditions, infections, or other neurological disorders. Identifying and addressing ataxia early is essential for helping children develop and thrive.

Parkinsonism in Children

Although Parkinsonism is commonly associated with older adults, children can also experience this rare condition. Pediatric Parkinsonism symptoms include:

• Tremors
• Muscle stiffness
• Bradykinesia (slowed movement)

These symptoms can make simple tasks like writing, walking, or playing challenging. Early diagnosis and specialized treatment are crucial to improving a child’s quality of life. 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.

How Are Pediatric Movement Disorders Diagnosed and Treated?

A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach is essential for managing pediatric movement disorders effectively. Early Diagnosis Recognizing unusual movements or coordination issues early can lead to timely intervention and better outcomes. Specialized Evaluation Consultation with a pediatric neurologist or movement disorder specialist is critical. These experts conduct in-depth evaluations to determine the underlying cause of the disorder. Diagnostic Tools Tests such as brain imaging, genetic analysis, and electromyography (EMG) help pinpoint the root cause of the disorder and guide treatment decisions. Personalized Treatment Plans Treatment plans are tailored to each child’s specific needs and may include:

• Medications to manage symptoms
• Physical and occupational therapy to improve motor skills
• Surgical interventions in severe cases

Long-Term Support Movement disorders often require ongoing management. Regular follow-ups and adjustments to the treatment plan are necessary to ensure optimal outcomes. Family Involvement Parents and caregivers play a key role in therapy exercises, emotional support, and medication adherence.

Why Choose NJPNI’s Pediatric Movement Disorders Center?

The Pediatric Movement Disorders Center at NJPNI is a trusted resource for families seeking expert care for children with movement disorders. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Expert Team: Our board-certified pediatric physiatrists, neurosurgeons and neurologists specialize in diagnosing and treating complex movement disorders.
• Advanced Diagnostics: We utilize cutting-edge technology for accurate and early diagnosis.
• Comprehensive Care: Our multidisciplinary approach includes collaboration with physical therapists, occupational therapists, and genetic counselors to ensure holistic treatment.
• Individualized Attention: Every child is unique, and our personalized care plans reflect their specific needs.
• Family-Centered Approach: We provide guidance and resources to empower parents and caregivers throughout the treatment journey.

When to Seek Help From a Pediatric Movement Disorder Specialist

If your child shows any of the following signs, it’s time to consult a specialist:

• Persistent tremors or involuntary movements
• Difficulty with coordination or balance
• Noticeable delays in motor skill development
• Recurrent issues with muscle stiffness or slowness

Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving your child’s quality of life.

Conclusion: A Path to Improved Movement and Well-Being

Pediatric movement disorders can be challenging, but early diagnosis and expert care provide hope and improved outcomes for children. At NJPNI’s Pediatric Movement Disorders Center, our compassionate team is committed to helping children overcome these challenges and achieve their full potential. If you suspect your child may have a movement disorder, don’t wait. Contact NJPNI today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can support your family. Your child’s health and happiness 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.