Neuromuscular medicine focuses on disorders of the peripheral nerves, the junction where nerves meet muscles, and the muscles themselves. Common symptoms are tingling, numbness, burning pain in the feet, weakness, cramps, muscle wasting and difficulty climbing stairs or lifting the arms.

Patients at Apex are examined for strength, reflexes and sensation, and EMG and nerve conduction studies are often used to locate the problem. Blood tests assess for diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disease and other treatable causes. Peripheral neuropathy is often linked to diabetes, but other causes need to be excluded.

Treatment depends on the cause. Some conditions respond to correcting a deficiency or controlling blood sugar, others need medicines that calm the immune system, and some require long-term supportive care and rehabilitation.

Neuromuscular services at Apex include:

• Peripheral Neuropathy Care: Identification of the cause of numbness, tingling and burning pain, with treatment of the underlying condition and medicines to relieve nerve pain.
• Muscle Disease Evaluation: Assessment of muscle weakness with blood tests and EMG to separate muscle disorders from nerve or spinal causes.
• Myasthenia and Immune-Related Disorders: Evaluation of fluctuating weakness, drooping eyelids and conditions in which the immune system affects nerves or muscles.
• Rehabilitation Support: Guidance on exercises, supports and aids that help patients maintain their strength, mobility and independence.