Most of the neuromuscular disorders have no cure. The goal of treatment is to improve the symptoms, increase mobility and lengthen the life of the child.
The diagnosis of any neuromuscular disorder depends on a comprehensive history taking and physical examination. Further tests are done subsequently, which may include blood tests for muscle enzymes, genetic testing, nerve conduction study or muscle biopsy.
Tests on other organ systems such as the heart or lungs may be required if they are associated with the respective types of neuromuscular disorder. For example, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy has heart involvement but not Myasthenia Gravis and Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Thus, heart screening will be performed if a child has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
The treatment for neuromuscular disorders involves a multidisciplinary team consisting of paediatricians from various specialities such as pulmonary, orthopaedics, gastroenterology and cardiology as well as allied health professionals such as dietitians, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, geneticists and medical social workers. We run a monthly neuromuscular clinic that provides comprehensive care for children and adolescents diagnosed with progressive neuromuscular conditions. Our multidisciplinary clinic caters to specific groups such as the independent walkers as well as the wheelchair-dependent patients.