Motor disability

It may be related to:
• a neurological condition (cerebral palsy, neuromuscular diseases, brain injuries),
• an orthopaedic condition (malformations, scoliosis, growth disorders),
• genetic or muscular diseases,
• disorders of muscle tone or coordination.

Depending on the origin of the disorder, the child may experience:
• difficulty moving around independently,
• an unstable or painful posture,
• the need for technical mobility aids,
• limitations in everyday or school activities.

At the Children’s Hospital (HUDERF), motor disability is managed in particular through the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Consultation and the complex mobility assistance and positioning consultation, which supports children requiring specific assistance to move around, sit correctly or choose suitable equipment

Care is based on a comprehensive, individualised and multidisciplinary approach, in which Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation plays a central role.

The Complex Mobility and Positioning Support Consultation (HUDERF)

This specialised consultation is intended for children and adolescents:

• who have difficulty moving around independently;

• who require a wheelchair, specialised pushchair or technical aid;

• who have complex positioning needs (seating, support, pressure relief);

• who are making a first request for mobility support or require equipment to be readjusted.

During this joint consultation, the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation physician and the occupational therapist:

• assess posture, muscle tone, mobility and the safety of moving around,

• provide precise recommendations on positioning and the prevention of pain and deformities,

• direct patients towards the most appropriate mobility aid:

• support families with administrative procedures,

• coordinate communication with:

– the school environment,

– orthopaedic suppliers/technicians,

– external professionals (rehabilitation centres, physiotherapists, early intervention services).

The consultation serves as a point of reference for directing the child to other specialised services (orthopaedics, Neuropaediatrics, Physiotherapy, psychomotor therapy, etc.).