Neuromuscular Disorders
Neuromuscular disorders affect the nerves that connect the muscles to the spinal cord and brain. Some of these nerves control the voluntary movement of the muscles while others communicate sensory information back to the brain. When these nerves become dysfunctional or die, communication breaks down between the muscles and the brain and the muscles begin to atrophy. Some neuromuscular diseases are hereditary or caused by a spontaneous mutation. Others are caused by an immune system disorder.
Progressive muscle weakness and fatigue are the hallmarks of neuromuscular disorders. Depending on the condition and affected areas of the body, symptoms may include a combination of the following:
- Muscle weakness, pain, twitching, or cramping
- Movement issues
- Balance problems
- Numbness, tingling or painful sensations
- Droopy eyelids
- Double vision
- Vocal weakness or trembling
- Difficulty swallowing
- Trouble breathing
Our specialists treat the full spectrum of neuromuscular disorders.
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Motor neuron diseases such as myotropic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Hereditary and congenital neuromuscular disorders such as muscular dystrophy
- Acquired muscular disorders
- Toxic neuropathy–nerve damage due to exposure to toxic substances
- Neuromuscular junction disorders, such as Myasthenia gravis or Lambert-Eaton Syndrome, that affect areas where the nerves connect with muscles
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Myositis, chronic inflammation of the muscles, including polymyositis, dermatomyositis, and inclusion body myositis
- Dystonia (involuntary muscle contractions)
Because neuromuscular disorders have a variety of causes, diagnosis is a complex process and may involve a variety of tests. After taking a family history and evaluating a patient’s muscle strength, reflexes, and other symptoms, our physicians may order one or more of the below tests:
- MRI of the brain and spinal cord
- Blood test to check for certain enzymes
- Spinal tap
- Genetic testing to check for a genetic mutation
- Nerve conduction studies to evaluate the communication between the nerves and the muscles
- Electromyography (EMG) which records the electrical activity of affected muscles
- Muscle biopsy for microscopic examination of muscle tissue
While a good deal of promising research is being conducted, there is currently no cure for muscular disorders. Treatment focuses on delaying the progression of the disease, reducing symptoms where possible, and enhancing quality of life. Depending on the condition, physical and occupational therapy, medication, and in certain cases, surgery, may be prescribed.
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