Neuromuscular Diseases Specialist

What are neuromuscular disorders?

Neuromuscular disorders affect the nerves that control voluntary movement in your muscles, causing weakness and fatigue. 

They’re often progressive and may be genetic or due to an abnormal immunologic response, exposure to toxins, or tumors. Some neuromuscular disorders don’t have an identifiable cause. 

Common neuromuscular disorders include:

Muscular dystrophy

There are about 30 types of muscular dystrophy. Depending on the specific condition, symptoms can emerge during childhood or later in life. These diseases cause muscle loss and weakness. 

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, ALS is a progressive disease that attacks neurons in your brain and spinal cord. Neurons transmit messages between your brain and voluntary muscles. 

Early signs, such as imbalance or problems walking, can become much more severe, leading to paralysis and eventually affecting the muscles in your chest that allow your chest to rise and fall while you breathe. 

Spinal muscular atrophy

Spinal muscular atrophy attacks the motor neurons in your spine. As your neurons die, your muscles become weak, and you lose your ability to make voluntary movements, including walking, swallowing, and breathing. 

Myasthenia gravis

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease that interferes with the nerve signals between your brain and voluntary muscles. It can cause muscle weakness and reduced movement throughout your body, from your ability to move your eyes and swallow to walking.

How are neuromuscular disorders diagnosed?

The team at Bromley Neurology PC provides thorough exams and diagnostic testing to identify neuromuscular diseases. 

After reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle, your doctor completes a physical exam, including in-office neurological tests to assess your reflexes, balance, and grip.

Your doctor may also order blood tests, MRIs, CT scans, an electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyography (EMG), and nerve conduction studies. 

How are neuromuscular disorders treated?

Neuromuscular disorder treatments vary depending on your specific condition. Your doctor may combine therapies to slow the progression of your disease, relieve your symptoms, and help you retain as much strength and muscle control as possible. Your treatment plan may include:

• Medication
• Neuro-immunology therapy
• Infusion therapy
• Physical therapy
  
  

Call Bromley Neurology PC today or make an appointment online for expert diagnosis and patient-focused treatments for neuromuscular disease.