Neuromuscular Disorders: Treatments & Options

Neuromuscular disorders affect the nerves that control the voluntary muscles in the body. Neurons send out electrical messages that control the muscles in the arms and legs, and when the neurons become unhealthy and die from the neuromuscular disorder, the communication between the muscles and the nervous systems breaks down. Types of neuromuscular disorders include amyotropic lateral sclerosis, multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, myasthenia gravis and spinal muscular atrophy. While there is no cure for neuromuscular disorders, a combination of various therapies and individual and family counseling can help manage the symptoms.

Symptoms

• Because of the destruction of the neurons and the neuron-muscle communication, the muscles weaken over time and waste away. As the deterioration of the muscles begins, the patient will experience twitching in the arms and legs, cramping in the muscles, and aches and pains throughout the body. As the muscle weakening gets worse and the muscles waste away, the patient will have joint and movement problems and the pain will increase. As the neuromuscular disorder progresses over time, patients will start to have problems with heart function and breathing.

Drug Therapy

• Drug therapy can be effective for treating the symptoms of a neuromuscular disorder. Immunosuppressive drugs are used to ease the progression of the disorder; these drugs work by suppressing the inflammation of the muscles, which relieves both pain and twitching. In addition, anticonvulsants and antidepressants are prescribed for patients to treat the pain caused by the severed connections.

Physical Therapy

• Physical therapy is a useful treatment option for neuromuscular disorder patients, as it helps with joint and muscle movement. Physical therapy can also ease some of the twitching and cramping that are associated with neuromuscular disorders. However, physical therapy will not replace the neuron and muscle connection.

Occupational Therapy

• Occupational therapy allows neuromuscular disorder patients to carry out everyday activities while adjusting to the disorder's symptoms. Occupational therapists will help the patient relearn how to go grocery shopping and move around the house, as well as other daily necessities. In addition, occupational therapy can also aid mental health, as the therapy can give the patient a sense of independence.

Counseling

• Counseling can be very helpful when adjusting to life with a neuromuscular disorder. Individual counseling or group counseling for the patient's family can provide an outlet for dealing with the emotional issues that may arise. In addition, family education can help the patient's loved ones learn more about the disorder.