Pediatric Neuromuscular Care

If your child has muscle weakness, delayed motor skills, or trouble walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from the floor, a neuromuscular condition may be the cause. These conditions can affect the muscles, nerves, breathing, heart health, and movement. 

Families in the Hudson Valley and surrounding region can access specialized pediatric neuromuscular care without traveling into New York City. At WMCHealth, our pediatric neuromuscular team takes a team approach to evaluate, diagnose, and treat children with nerve and muscle disorders. Your child’s care team may include specialists from neurology, pulmonology, cardiology, genetics, rehabilitation, nutrition, and therapy services. 

Pediatric Diagnostics and Treatments 

A clear diagnosis can help your child get the most efficient care as early as possible. That’s why our team uses specialized testing to better understand how your child’s muscles and nerves are working. 

Diagnostic services may include: 

• Genetic testing 
• Muscle biopsies 
• Muscle ultrasound 
• Electromyography (EMG) 
• Nerve conduction studies (NCS) 

In many cases, your child’s first visit includes a detailed exam and muscle ultrasound. If findings suggest an inherited neuromuscular condition, your care team may also recommend genetic testing during the same visit. 

Advanced Treatment Options 

Some children with neuromuscular diseases may be eligible for gene therapy or other newer treatments. WMCHealth is a treatment center for several gene therapies and advanced genetic modulatory therapies, reflecting the advanced neuromuscular care available closer to home.  

Sedated EMG Testing for Young Children 

Some young children cannot comfortably complete EMG testing while awake. WMCHealth offers sedated EMG testing when appropriate, helping our team better understand nerve function before recommending surgery or other treatments. 

Why Choose WMCHealth for Neuromuscular Care 

More Streamlined, Coordinated Care 

At WMCHealth, families can access pediatric neuromuscular expertise through a connected program that brings together the services many children need in one place. When appropriate, children may see multiple specialists during a single visit, helping reduce repeat appointments and travel. This coordinated approach is especially valuable for families managing mobility challenges, complex care needs, or ongoing follow-up care. 

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Care Center 

WMCHealth is a Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Care Center for pediatric and adult neuromuscular care. This designation reflects our ability to care for children and adults with muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, and other neuromuscular conditions. 

Center for Pediatric Nerve Injury and Repair 

Some children with brachial plexus injuries or other nerve injuries may benefit from specialized evaluation and treatment. Our pediatric neuromuscular team works with pediatric neurosurgery and rehabilitation specialists to assess nerve function and determine the right next step. 

When appropriate, treatment may include therapy, nerve repair, or nerve reinnervation surgery. Our team recommends surgery only when testing shows it may help improve function.