While there are several types of neuromuscular disorders, they all have one element in common — disrupted electrical signals between nerves and muscles. When these two parts of the body cannot communicate properly, both muscle power and movement may be affected as a child grows.
Neuromuscular disorders are often genetic, meaning they may be caused by a change (or mutation) to a gene that a child has inherited. In some cases neuromuscular disorders are present at birth, and in others children may not be diagnosed until later in life.
Regardless of the age of your child, Mary Bridge Children’s offers advanced diagnosis, testing and treatment for neuromuscular disorders, with a focus on enhancing quality of life.
We also have a robust research program that aims to improve care and uncover new treatments. Our research efforts span a variety of areas within pediatric neurology, including neuromuscular disorders.
Neuromuscular disorders we treat
All our specialists are experienced, board-certified pediatric neurologists with expertise in treating a range of neuromuscular disorders.
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Motor neuron disorders
This group of rare disorders includes diseases such as spinal muscle atrophy (SMA), which affects the cells that control muscle movement.
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Peripheral nerve disorders
These disorders affect the peripheral nerves — those outside the brain and spinal cord. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is an inherited peripheral nerve disorder that causes pain and worsening muscle weakness. These disorders also cause Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare condition where the immune system damages the nerves and ultimately causes paralysis.
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Neuromuscular junction disorders
This group of disorders affects the parts of the body where nerves meet muscles. Examples of these disorders include juvenile myasthenia gravis and botulism. Juvenile myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disease that causes muscle weakness. Botulism is a disorder caused by foodborne bacteria that can lead to paralysis or death.
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Muscle disorders
We treat muscle disorders that include Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD), congenital muscular dystrophy and myotonic dystrophy. Muscular dystrophies are genetic disorders that cause muscle wasting and weakness that worsens over time. We also treat muscle disorders that include congenital myopathies and myositis. Myopathies often cause temporary weakness in a specific area, while myositis affects connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments.
Diagnosing neuromuscular disorders
At Mary Bridge Children’s, we use leading-edge technology to ensure an accurate diagnosis for your child so we can develop an effective treatment plan. Our pediatric neurologists use several types of evaluations and tests to diagnose neuromuscular disorders.
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Blood tests
Your child’s doctor may order a blood test to rule out other conditions. Genetic testing can also help specialists provide a diagnosis.
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
This type of scan uses radio waves and powerful magnets to create detailed images of internal structures. For an MRI, your child will lie on a small table that slides into a tunnel-shaped machine. An MRI takes approximately 40 minutes, possibly longer when a child requires sedation. We have technology available so your child can watch a movie during the MRI.
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Lumbar puncture
Also called a spinal tap, a lumbar puncture allows doctors to test the cerebrospinal fluid that surrounds the spinal cord. Our Sedation Services team ensures a pain-free procedure.
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Electromyography (EMG)
This test measures how your child’s muscles respond to stimulation. During this test, your child’s neurologist will insert one or more small needles into the muscle and ask him or her to perform certain movements.
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Nerve conduction study (NCS)
This type of test measures how fast an electrical impulse travels through a nerve. A specialist will place a flat circular electrode on your child’s skin, using a stimulating device to deliver a small electrical signal through the nerve.
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Muscle biopsy
A muscle biopsy requires taking a tissue sample for laboratory analysis under the microscope. Specialists use either a small needle or incision, aiming for the least invasive procedure possible to minimize discomfort.
Throughout the diagnosis and testing process, a child life specialist will be by your child’s side to help explain procedures and provide distraction. Our Sedation Services team is also available to make your child as comfortable as possible during testing. Learn more about diagnosis and testing.
Comprehensive neuromuscular treatment and support
Pediatric neurology specialists at Mary Bridge Children’s provide tailored treatment plans to manage symptoms and delay worsening of neuromuscular disorders. We offer:
Access to multispecialty care in one visit. Our Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Care Affiliate Clinic at Mary Bridge Children’s improves access to care by allowing children with confirmed neuromuscular disorders to see multiple specialists in a single clinic visit.
Medication management. Our Neurology team works together to pinpoint the best medications to treat your child’s symptoms.
Pediatric rehabilitation. Our Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Medicine team helps children with disabilities achieve their highest level of functioning. Mary Bridge Children’s also provides physical therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy experts to help improve your child’s skills and abilities.
Assistive technology. Assistive technology specialists at Mary Bridge Children’s ensure your child has necessary equipment such as braces, wheelchairs, walkers and communication devices.
Social worker and registered nurses. We know how confusing the health care system can be. Our social worker and registered nurses answer questions, coordinate care and help point you to extra resources to support your child. We can also provide referrals for transitioning to adult care when needed. Learn more about how we support you and your child.
Complex primary care. The Complex Primary Care team helps coordinate services such as home care, rehab and equipment specialists for children with disabilities.
Contact us
For more information about neurology care at Mary Bridge Children’s, please call 253-792-6630.