At Children’s Wisconsin, our team has special training in rare and complex motility disorders. We are one of the few places in the US able to offer kids full motility testing and a dedicated neurogastroenterology program. Families from across the country come here for our experience and whole-child approach.
We use the latest tests to guide care. We partner with you, bringing long-term support for every part of your child’s life. Your child’s Children’s Wisconsin care team can help them with everything from eating to feeling confident again.
We know how stressful digestive health issues can be. That’s why we support your whole family. We give you clear answers, a tailored care plan and a welcoming space where you feel heard.
Your First Visit
At your first visit, we take time to understand your child’s full story. We’ll look at your child’s symptoms, health history, test results and treatments you’ve tried. Your child will get a physical exam and we may have them do more advanced tests to learn how their digestive system is working.
Our testing may include:
- Anorectal, colonic and esophageal manometry: These tests show how well your child’s gut muscles and nerves work. They can show us where motility is slowing down or not working properly.
- Gastric emptying studies: This test shows how quickly food leaves your child’s stomach. It helps us find out if the stomach muscles are moving food at a normal pace.
- 24-hour pH impedance probe testing: This test tracks acid and non-acid reflux over a full day. It helps us understand how reflux plays a role in your child’s motility disorder.
We’ll explain each step of your child’s care plan clearly. We’re here to answer your questions and talk through your goals. Together, we’ll build a care plan that fits your child’s needs and works for your family.
During Treatment
We take a team-based, whole-child approach. We don’t focus on just their physical symptoms. We also work to improve their nutrition, emotional well-being, family routines and long-term quality of life.
Your child’s care team may include:
- Your child’s digestive care doctor (pediatric gastroenterologist)
- Nurses with training in motility disorders
- Dietitians who focus on digestive health
- Psychologists who help kids with chronic illness
- Surgeons
- Pain care experts
We check in regularly, adjust the plan as your child grows, adding experts as needed. If your child has pain, trouble eating or school and social issues, our team will help you. The families we work with feel supported and empowered.
After Care
Motility disorders often need long-term follow-up. We work with you for as long as your child needs us, sometimes for months or years. We’ll track progress, work with your local care team and make sure you always know what to expect next.
As your child gets better, we’ll help you prepare for the next steps. That may be transitioning care back to their home doctor, taking care of them at home or planning for future care needs. At every stage, our goal is the same: to help your child live as fully and comfortably as possible.
