Neuromuscular medicine

The field of neuromuscular medicine is subspecialty of neurology and physical medicine and rehabilitation. The field includes diseases that impact some part of the neuromuscular system such as the peripheral nerves (those in arms, legs, face and neck), muscle motor neurons, and neuromuscular junction – the spot where nerves and muscles come together. The field encompasses issues related to both diagnosis and medical treatment of these conditions, as well as relevant rehabilitation interventions to optimize the quality of life of individuals with these conditions. This field encompasses disorders that impact both adults and children. Many of the disorders are genetic. They however can also result from an abnormal immune response, a genetic mutation, and sometimes the cause is unknown. Because they frequently have no cure, the focus is on providing improvements in the patients quality of life by reducing symptoms. A formal educational process that includes one year of fellowship training following completion of residency training in neurology or physical medicine and rehabilitation was approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education.

Diagnostic tools

The tools used by phyicians specializing in neuromuscular medicine to diagnose neuromuscular disorders include (nerve and muscle biopsy), needle and nerve conduction studytesting, and molecular and genetic tests.

See also

• List of neuromuscular disorders

External links

• American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine
• American Academy of Neurology
• American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology