Neuromuscular Disorders

Neuromuscular disorders affect the nerves that control muscles or the muscles themselves. This includes conditions like motor neuron disease (MND/ALS), peripheral neuropathy, myasthenia gravis, muscular dystrophies, and inflammatory myopathies. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, wasting, twitching, numbness, tingling, or difficulty with movement and coordination.

Motor neuron disease (also called ALS or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) is a progressive condition affecting the nerve cells controlling muscle movement. It causes progressive weakness, muscle wasting, and eventually affects breathing, swallowing, and speech. While there's no cure, treatments can slow progression and manage symptoms. Early diagnosis allows access to disease-modifying treatments and multidisciplinary care.

Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) has many causes including diabetes, vitamin deficiencies (B12), autoimmune conditions, infections, medications, and genetic conditions. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, and weakness, usually starting in the feet and hands. Identifying the cause is crucial as many types are treatable when caught early.

Diagnosis involves clinical examination, blood tests, and specialised neurophysiology testing. EMG (electromyography) assesses muscle electrical activity, while nerve conduction studies measure how nerves transmit signals. Our clinic offers advanced testing including single-fibre EMG. Genetic testing and muscle biopsy may also be needed for some conditions.

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune condition where antibodies attack the connection between nerves and muscles, causing weakness that worsens with activity. Common symptoms include drooping eyelids, double vision, difficulty swallowing, and limb weakness. It's highly treatable with immunotherapy and other medications, and most patients achieve good symptom control.

Yes, our neurologists are actively involved in neuromuscular research, including novel High Density Surface EMG techniques for studying motor neuron disease. This research aims to improve early diagnosis and monitor disease progression. Participating in research gives our patients access to the latest diagnostic techniques and potential clinical trials.