Neuromuscular Disease
The neurology team at University Hospitals offers innovations in testing, diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular diseases – all in a collaborative setting to ensure our patients maintain a high quality of life.
The keys to managing a neuromuscular disorder is early detection and focused treatment. If you or your doctor suspect you have a neuromuscular issue, it is important to see a specialist as soon as possible.
For certain diseases, such as myasthenia gravis, if care is delayed, the disease can become more resistant to drug therapy, making it harder to treat. For conditions like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which currently has no known cure, early detection allows us to better manage ALS symptoms, extending your quality of life for as long as possible.
Research and Innovations in Neuromuscular Disease Treatment
Our neurology team is leading research efforts with several clinical trials and pioneering nationally-funded laboratory research. Several of our experts have written comprehensive textbooks that serve as definitive resources for the treatment of neuromuscular conditions.
We also use the latest technology to diagnose and guide treatment. For example, UH has one of the few neuromuscular ultrasounds in the country allowing us to respond to neuromuscular disorders faster and more effectively. In addition, our use of electromyography (EMG) has dramatically changed the way we address disorders like entrapment neuropathy.
Our team treats a wide range of neuromuscular conditions, including:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or Lou Gehrig’s disease: A progressive disease that breaks down the nerve cells in voluntary muscles
- Myasthenia gravis: An autoimmune disease that causes a weakness in skeletal muscles.
- Muscular dystrophy: Genetic disease that results in the progressive weakness of muscles.
- Neuropathy: Condition where nerves are damaged or diseased.
Specialty Clinic Leads the Way in ALS and Neuromuscular Disorder Treatment
With extensive experience and expertise in ALS treatment, University Hospitals is one of only a few facilities in the country with an ALS Clinic sponsored in part by the ALS Foundation. Through this important collaboration, we have access to groundbreaking research and technology. Our ALS dedicated team includes:
- Neuromuscular specialists
- Pulmonologists
- Surgeons
- Physical therapists
- Speech therapists
With a focus on discovering new therapies, our researchers developed a special breathing device that allows ALS patients to breathe on their own, helping them better participate in a daily routine and prolonging their quality of life. Our ALS Program brings together specialists from the Neuromuscular Center, rehabilitative services, surgery and pulmonary medicine to deliver the best possible outcomes.
We also have a Muscular Disease Clinic that is focused on the diagnosis and treatment of several inherited muscular disorders, including muscular dystrophy and inherited neuropathy.
In addition, our Myasthenia Gravis Program treats patients with immunosuppressive drugs, plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin.
For more information about our specialized services for neuromuscular diseases, content one of our team members at any of our convenient locations across the region.