WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

WHAT IS NEUROMUSCULAR DISEASE?

Neuromuscular Disease affects the normal function of nerve and muscle. Symptoms can include muscle pain, weakness or muscle spasms. Some conditions can lead to progressive loss of muscle, numbness, and even death. We diagnose/follow patients in the neuromuscular clinic with neuromuscular disease are nerve disorders (neuropathies such as Guillain-Barré syndrome, carpal tunnel syndrome), muscle disorders (myopathies, muscular dystrophies), neuromuscular junction disorders (myasthenia gravis), and motor neuron diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and spinal muscular atrophy.

WHAT CAUSES IT?

Neuromuscular diseases can be inherited or caused by a spontaneous gene mutation; some also may be caused by immune system disorders.

WHAT ARE THE TREATMENTS FOR NEUROMUSCULAR DISORDER?

Currently, research is being done on genetic therapies and new medications in hopes of finding a cure. Treating symptoms, delaying disease progression, and enhancing the quality of life for patients is accomplished with medications, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and when necessary, surgery.