For children with cerebral palsy, we provide expert, comprehensive care at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Why Choose Johns Hopkins All Children’s

We are experienced in treating children of all ages with mild to severe cerebral palsy. Patients are seen by James Chinarian, M.D., our pediatric rehabilitation medicine specialist. Dr. Chinarian has been treating children with neurodevelopmental disabilities, and in particular cerebral palsy, for more than 30 years.

Our patients also receive care from our highly skilled physical, occupational and speech-language therapists. Our therapists are experienced in treating children of all ages with complex medical conditions, including cerebral palsy.

Children with cerebral palsy often need care from physicians in additional specialty areas such as neurology, orthopaedics, gastroenterology or ophthalmology. We provide referrals to these other specialties within Johns Hopkins All Children’s, depending on your child’s individual needs. Our specialists in these areas are experienced in providing care for patients with cerebral palsy. The Clinical Genetics program at Johns Hopkins All Children’s also provides genetic testing for children whose cerebral palsy may have a genetic cause. 

To meet our patients’ adaptive equipment needs, we also have a wheelchair and equipment program with physical and occupational therapists, and can help to refer our patients to outside orthotic providers as needed.

What to Expect

New patients may need imaging studies. We will provide you with referrals for MRI or other imaging with our radiology team as needed.

Dr. Chinarian will direct your child’s treatment, which typically involves physical and occupational therapy and speech-language therapy, and may include medications or injections such as Botox.

Some patients may also be referred to the Spasticity Clinic, which provides care for patients who may benefit from surgical treatment for spasticity.