Advanced Treatment for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), formerly called Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive disease resulting in the loss of muscle control and the onset of muscle twitches called fasciculations. ALS impedes normal functioning of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control the body’s voluntary muscle movements and breathing. The result is a loss of ability to control muscle movements, including walking, talking and chewing, as well as breathing. Symptoms, including atrophy of the muscles, worsen over time as motor neurons continue to degenerate.

While there currently is no cure for ALS, or a way to reverse its symptoms, there are treatments that can help slow the disease’s progression and improve your quality of life. Our multidisciplinary care team specialized in treating ALS can optimize your treatment by bringing together a multitude of providers, including neurologists, pharmacists, home care experts as well as occupational, speech and respiratory therapists. Together, your care team can address all aspects of your health, designing a unique treatment plan to help you feel better and minimize your symptoms.

What Causes ALS?

Scientists are still working to determine what causes ALS. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, ALS most commonly occurs in people aged 55-75; however, ALS can affect people of all ages, including children. ALS impacts both men and women and people of all races and ethnicities. Only a small percentage of ALS cases are attributed to possible genetic causes.

ALS Symptoms We Treat

ALS is a progressive disease, meaning its symptoms worsen over time. Early ALS symptoms include muscle twitches and cramps, muscle weakness (including in the arm, leg or neck), slurred speech and difficulty chewing and swallowing.

As the disease progresses, you might lose the ability to walk, stand, use your hands and arms and breathe independently. Difficulty chewing and swallowing food (dysphagia), as well as difficulty speaking and breathing, can worsen. Drooling also increases, and you may also have trouble maintaining weight.

ALS Screening and Diagnostics We Offer

If you experience any early symptoms of ALS, it is critical to see a neurological team experienced in treating ALS as soon as possible. When ALS is diagnosed early, treatments may be more effective.

To diagnose ALS, our providers will conduct physical exams testing your reflexes and muscle strength, as well as an MRI and possibly blood, urine and other tests.