Pediatric Neuromuscular Program
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Why choose UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals for neuromuscular care for your child?
We care for children with conditions affecting muscles, nerves or how nerves communicate with muscles – including muscular dystrophies, inherited conditions that weaken muscles over time. We also treat Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a group of inherited peripheral nerve disorders. Families may come to us after their baby had a newborn screening, received a new diagnosis or have symptoms that need clear answers.
When you turn to us for care, we discuss with you what your child's condition may mean now and what support your family may need over time.
Our long-established program brings together many specialists to plan your child's care. We also help families learn about new treatment options, research studies and future care needs.
Why choose UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals for neuromuscular care for your child?
We care for children with conditions affecting muscles, nerves or how nerves communicate with muscles – including muscular dystrophies, inherited conditions that weaken muscles over time. We also treat Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a group of inherited peripheral nerve disorders. Families may come to us after their baby had a newborn screening, received a new diagnosis or have symptoms that need clear answers.
When you turn to us for care, we discuss with you what your child's condition may mean now and what support your family may need over time.
Our long-established program brings together many specialists to plan your child's care. We also help families learn about new treatment options, research studies and future care needs.
Multiple experts, one plan
Your child's specialists share findings and shape recommendations together, so care feels connected and moves forward seamlessly.Advanced testing that guides care
Our team uses specialized nerve, muscle and genetic tests to understand your child's condition better so we can plan the most effective treatment.Support beyond treatment
We help families manage school needs, equipment, prescriptions, resources and daily challenges.Access to next-generation therapies
Your child may be eligible to join a clinical trial testing promising options for neuromuscular conditions.
Advanced care for all types of neuromuscular conditions
We care for children with muscular dystrophies and other nerve and muscle disorders, including:
Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
Friedreich ataxia
Myasthenia gravis
We use advanced diagnostic testing to help us understand the condition and guide treatment. Tests include:
Highly coordinated care team
Families often travel to UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals for care that involves a team of specialists. When possible, we coordinate care, so your child sees several experts during the same trip.
Your team reviews findings together and creates one coordinated care plan. This approach reduces separate appointments and ensures everyone understands next steps.
Your child's team may include specialists in:
Neuromuscular conditions
Gastroenterology
Orthopedic surgery
Pulmonology
Cardiology
Your care team may also include:
Orthotists
Physical and occupational therapists
Respiratory therapists
Nurse case manager to help coordinate appointments, prescriptions, equipment and school needs
Social worker, who supports your family with resources for all your needs
Advanced therapies and support for life
Many neuromuscular conditions do not have cures. But newer therapies can help manage some diseases and their complications. We care for your child over time and adjust therapies as their needs change.
Treatment may focus on:
Breathing support
Comfort and daily function
Heart health
Mobility and strength
Nutrition and growth
Scoliosis and joint stiffness
As your child gets older, we plan a thoughtful transition to adult neuromuscular care. Our goal is to maintain the same careful coordination your family has come to rely on.
Access to emerging treatment options
We actively participate in clinical trials and research studies investigating new therapies for neuromuscular conditions. Through UCSF, eligible children may have access to clinical trials and research studies.
Our team can talk with your family about studies that may be appropriate for your child. If a study elsewhere may be a good match, we can help connect your family with that opportunity.
Locations (dynamic)
Providers (dynamic)
Sharon Orbach Wietstock, MD, MS
Neurology • Pediatric Neurology
Sabine Mueller, MD, PhD
Pediatric Hematology-Oncology (Neuro-Oncology) • Pediatric Neurology
Jill L. Ostrem, MD
Neurology • Pediatric Neurology
Keely Fitzgerald, DO
Pediatric Neurology
Providers (manual)
Jonathan Strober, MD
Pediatric Neurology • Neurology (Neuromuscular Medicine)
Gwynne D. Church, MD
Pediatric Pulmonology • Pediatric Sleep Medicine
Mohammad Diab, MD
Orthopedic Surgery (Spine Surgery) • Orthopedic Surgery
Alex Fay, MD, PhD
Pediatric Neurology • Neurology (Neuromuscular Medicine)
Awards & achievements
#1
in NIH funding among U.S. neurology programs
One of the nation's best for neurology & neurosurgery
Ranked among the nation's best in 11 specialties
Related conditions & treatments
Conditions
- Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
- Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
- Friedreich Ataxia
- Muscular Dystrophy
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Neuromuscular Diseases
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Treatments
- Clinical Trials
- Electromyography
- Genetic Testing
- Nerve Conduction Studies
Accreditations & memberships
Certified Duchenne care centerOpens in a new window
Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy named our program a certified Duchenne care center. This designation recognizes our comprehensive, high-quality care for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, the most common type.Sponsored by the MDA
Our program is sponsored by the Muscular Dystrophy Association, connecting families with a national network focused on neuromuscular care, research and support.
Trials & research
Clinical trials
The Effect of Erector Spinae Plane Block (ESPB) on Pediatric Pain Management Following Posterior Spinal Fusion (PSF) SurgeryOpens in a new window
This study is being done to better understand the efficacy of an erector spinae plane block (ESPB) in pain management for children with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis or Neuromuscular Scoliosis undergoing Posterior Spinal Fusion surgery. The study team is trying to find out if receiving the ESPB leads to less pain and less need for pain medication after surgery...
Research initiatives
Support services
Child Life
Certified child life specialists ease the stress and anxiety of childhood illness through therapeutic play, schooling and family-focused support.
Family Amenities
Family-friendly amenities help you relax and take care of yourself while staying close to your child. We offer lounges, kitchens, showers, breastfeeding rooms and more.
Social Services at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
Social workers ease the effect of illness, injury and hospitalization on your family with counseling and assistance to help you navigate the challenges.
Activity Rooms
Activity rooms offer a relaxed environment for children of all ages. Features include a playroom, digital arts studio and teen lounge. Find out more.
Pediatric Art Therapy Program
Art therapy helps kids and families express themselves, making it easier to cope with pediatric health issues. Group and bedside services are available.
Pediatric Music Therapy Program
Board-certified music therapists help kids cope with illness and the feelings that come with it. Find out about group activities and bedside therapy.
School Program for Hospitalized Children
Our schoolroom services and individual learning programs help children hospitalized at UCSF continue their education and get ready to return to school.
School Re-Entry Program
We help kids return to school after hospitalization by educating staff and students about their needs and recommending needed accommodations. Read more.
Individual Playtime & Instruction
If your child can't be around other kids for medical reasons, you can sign up for private sessions in our activity and school rooms. Find out how.
Interpreter Services & Communication Assistance at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
Interpreter services in many languages and TDDs are available for families that need help communicating with care teams. Here's how to access them.
Parent Support Program
Weekly activities, including knitting, scrapbooking, chair massage and more, help family caregivers get a much-needed break. Find out more.
Patient Relations at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
Patient relations reps and nursing supervisors are here to answer questions and address concerns. Learn about your rights, how to reach us and more.
Spiritual Care at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
Chaplains help UCSF patients, families and staff cope with the spiritual and emotional challenges of childhood illness. Learn more.
International Services at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals
If you're coming to UCSF from outside the U.S., we coordinate your child's appointments and provide other helpful services. Here's how to get started.