FAQs

For patients with managed care (HMO) insurance, including MediCal and California Children's services, authorization is required prior to the initial appointment. All initial evaluations should include authorization for imaging (x-rays).

For patients with non-managed care plans, we frequently receive referrals from primary care physicians and other specialists, but a referral is not necessary for authorization. Any necessary information will be obtained from you during your scheduling calls with UCLA.

Please call our office for additional assistance with insurance authorization.

Yes! We work with patients with cerebral palsy, suspected cerebral palsy, and similar or related conditions of all ages - from birth through adulthood!

By its definition, cerebral palsy is not progressive, which means that the injury to the brain does not get worse over time. The symptoms of cerebral palsy may, however, appear to change as a child matures. This is because of the abnormal signals in the brain that cause differences in tone (such as spasticity). A muscle with abnormal tone may not stretch and grow in the same way as a "typical" muscle. This may result in the muscle getting tighter as the child grows, making movement more difficult.

Adults with cerebral palsy may experience increased difficulty with mobility as they age as well, due to the effects of tone differences, muscle stiffness, and increased difficulty building and maintaining muscle mass. It is not uncommon for someone who was able to walk without equipment to choose to use a cane or a wheelchair for long distances when they are older. Depending upon the person and the degree of their impairment, these slow changes may begin in their 20s or 30s. Some of these problems may be respond to an individualized exercise program that strengthens muscles, increases cardiorespiratory endurance or increases muscle flexibility. The Center for Cerebral Palsy’s inter-disciplinary team can evaluate you and determine if your problems are amenable to therapy or other intervention to improve your quality of life.

However, while it is well-known that adults with cerebral palsy may experience the signs and symptoms of aging earlier than the unaffected population, a rapid change in muscle strength, sensation or overall function is not a sign of CP and should be evaluated promptly by a physician.

Unfortunately, the initial brain injury that causes cerebral palsy cannot be cured. That does not mean, however, that adults and children with cerebral palsy cannot become functional, independent members of the community. The best long-term results are related to beginning therapy as early as possible (as soon as cerebral palsy is suspected). Therapy may include physical, occupational and/or speech therapy.

For adults, it is important to stay as active as possible and to work on improving and maintaining muscle mass and cardiorespiratory fitness. Intermittent bouts of physical therapy are highly beneficial to provide guidance and an individualized exercise program that can be completed regularly at home or in the community, once formal therapy sessions end.