Why choose Cook Children’s Neurology?
Our pediatric neurologists are experts in diseases of the brain, spine and nerves. Every day, we find answers to tough health issues and provide important treatments. At the Jane and John Justin Institute for Mind Health (our neurosciences center), we also focus on kindness and compassion. We take the time to listen, understand and support your family to make life easier.
What you can expect
Neurological conditions need a complete approach, since kids often have other medical issues. As part of the Justin Institute, our neurologists work side by side with a range of specialists. We also partner with doctors across Cook Children’s when neurological conditions affect other areas of the body.
When you come to us for neurology care, you can expect:
Our doctors have years of training in both pediatrics and neurology. Many have also trained in specific conditions. This background gives us the ability to treat nearly any neurological condition.
We use advanced technologies to find the source of your child’s symptoms. Then, we create a plan to help your child be the best they can be. Whenever possible, we offer the latest therapies you won’t find at other centers in the region.
Our neurologists are leading groundbreaking research and clinical trials. This work is changing treatment for epilepsy, neuromuscular disorders, stroke and other conditions.
The Justin Institute brings together experts from nine specialties. In many cases, your child can see multiple professionals during a single visit.
At Cook Children's, you know your child's doctor, and they know you. We're also here when you need us. When you call, we quickly respond with answers to your questions and concerns.
Advancing Pediatric Neurology
Our neurologists are at the leading edge of medicine and technology. Many conduct research and lead clinical trials that move the field forward. A clinical trial investigates a new treatment not yet approved for wide use.
The Dodson Neuro Research Endowment ensures lasting support for pediatric neuroscience by investing donations, using annual earnings to fund research, enhance patient care, and drive innovation for generations.
Treatments we offer
We deliver proven treatments and personalized care to every child we see. Families from across Texas and the U.S. turn to us for our experience in:
Medications are a key part of care for neurological conditions. They're also an area of rapid development. As new medication therapies become available, you'll find them at Cook Children's. A unique offering at Cook Children's is our Botox Clinic for kids with movement disorders.
Gene therapy is a newer treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy. It works by replacing the harmful gene with a working copy. Gene therapy isn’t a cure, but it can stop the disease from getting worse or slow it down.
Neurorehabilitation improves strength and everyday skills. We offer this therapy for kids with neurological illnesses and injuries during stays at Cook Children's Medical Center. With experienced therapists and state-of-the-art facilities, we help your child get ready to go home.
Our pediatric neurosurgeons are among the nation’s best. Every day, they perform highly detailed procedures. These operations include deep brain stimulation, brain tumor removal and epilepsy surgery. Learn more about Neurosurgery.
Your child's care starts with an accurate diagnosis, which is often like piecing together a puzzle. Our medical teams and Child Life specialists provide complete, kid-friendly neurosciences testing. They use creative — even magical — strategies to make the experience less stressful for your child. Sedation may also be an option, depending on the test and your child's age and maturity.
Diagnostic tests we offer include:
- Neurological exam: This in-office series of tests looks at many aspects of brain and nerve function. Areas of focus may include balance, movement, memory, reflexes and more.
- Biopsy: A biopsy is a procedure to collect a tissue sample, such as from a muscle, a nerve or the brain. A doctor called a pathologist studies the tissue to look for certain changes.
- Genetic testing: A genetic test checks your child's DNA for changes known to cause neurological disorders. Specialists at Cook Children's Genetics Center often help us review the results and share them with your family.
- Medical imaging: Medical imaging can show details of your child's brain and spinal cord. Performed by skilled radiology specialists, these tests include standard and high-tech scans.
- Electroencephalography (EEG): This test records electrical activity in the brain. It helps us diagnose epilepsy, sleep disorders and other conditions. We offer EEG in our Epilepsy Monitoring Unit inside Cook Children's Medical Center. We also offer it as a test in our outpatient offices.
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies: These tests measure how well your child's muscles and nerves work. We usually perform these tests together to assess children for neuromuscular disorders.
- Magnetoencephalography (MEG):MEG records magnetic fields in the brain. We use this information to map where seizures occur and locate tumors.
Moments of magic
Hope and healing happen every day at Cook Children’s. Discover some of our highlights.
