Muscle Biopsy Evaluation in Neuromuscular Disorders
This article reviews the indications for a muscle biopsy, and then gives a step-by-step description of the processes of muscle selection through to interpreting the biopsy report. The article aims…
A Practical Approach to Molecular Diagnostic Testing in Neuromuscular Diseases
Molecular diagnosis is an important aspect in the care of patients with neuromuscular disorders. Because of the rapidly evolving nature of the field, the approach to obtaining a molecular diagnosis…
Disease Burden in Neuromuscular Disease
This article reviews the evidence showing that chronic pain is a significant problem for patients with neuromuscular disease (NMD). Future directions are discussed, including the need for studies addressing the…
Augmentative and Alternative Communication for People with Progressive Neuromuscular Disease
Individuals with progressive neuromuscular disease often experience complex communication needs and consequently find that interaction using their natural speech may not sufficiently meet their daily needs. Increasingly, assistive technology advances…
Physical Therapy Evaluation and Management in Neuromuscular Diseases
Neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) are a group of myopathic or neuropathic diseases that directly or indirectly affect the functioning of muscle. Physical therapists (PTs) have extensive specialized training in musculoskeletal evaluation…
Exercise in Neuromuscular Diseases
This article reviews the current knowledge regarding the benefits and contraindications of exercise on individuals with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). Specific exercise prescriptions for individuals with NMDs do not exist because…
Electrodiagnosis in Neuromuscular Disease
Electromyography (EMG) is an important diagnostic tool for the assessment of individuals with various neuromuscular diseases. It should be an extension of a thorough history and physical examination. Some prototypical…
The Role of the Neuromuscular Medicine and Physiatry Specialists in the Multidisciplinary Management of Neuromuscular Disease
The neuromuscular medicine and physiatry specialists are key health care providers who work cooperatively with a multidisciplinary team to provide coordinated care for individuals with neuromuscular diseases (NMDs). The director…
Management of Pulmonary Complications in Neuromuscular Disease
Restrictive lung disease occurs commonly in patients with neuromuscular disease. The earliest sign of respiratory compromise in the patient with neuromuscular disease is nocturnal hypoventilation, which progresses over time to…
Treatment of Spine Deformity in Neuromuscular Diseases
Surgical management of spinal deformity in neuromuscular diseases (NMDs) often requires a multidisciplinary approach beginning in the preoperative surgical planning period, owing to concomitant restrictive lung disease and cardiomyopathy in…
