Neuromuscular Disorders: Treatment, Procedure, Cost and Side Effects

Neuromuscular disorders is an umbrella term that covers a vast range of conditions that affect those nerves of a person, which are responsible for controlling the musle function. Commom disorders include Parkinson's disease, Hutington's disease, multipe sclerosis and more. The treatement for neuromuscular disorders generally focuses on symptom management rather than cure as most of these disorders do not have a permanent cure. Commonly adopted treatment options include administeration of drugs, exercises, and counseling sessions to help cope with the pain better. These treatment methods can considerably improve the qaulity of the life of the patients and can even provide symptom relief. That said, since neuromuscular disorders are of multiple different types, the best treatment method will be entirely dependent on the particular disorder the patient is suffering from.

Since neuromuscular disorders of various kinds, the way the treatment works can vary depending on the method prescribed and the disorder the patient has. That said, for most of these disorders exercising, drugs and support groups suffice. Exercises prescribed for neuromuscular disorders are carried out with the help of a physiotherapist. Simple exercises such as stretches or those that focus on the movement of the affected muslce are performed. Before exercising, some simple warm-up exercises maybe prescribed so that there are no adverse affects. As for drug therapy, immunosuppresive drugs are generally used. These are typically administered orally and they specifically help in treating nerve disorders that affect the junctions of the muscles and nerves. In some cases, these drugs may also be administered in the form of injections as well as topical medications. Moreover, antidepressants and anticonvulsants can be used to treat neuropathic pain. Support groups help patients overcome the social associated with thier neuromuscular disorder so that they can lead healthy lives. Support groups work simply. Patients just need to enrol themselves in one and attend sessions regularly.

Patients who suffer from any type of neuromuscular disorder are eligible for these treatment options. However, advanced cases may require surgical intervention.

Patients with advanced symptoms are not eligible for simple treatment options such as support groups and exercises. Pregnant women may also not be eligible for such treatments.

The immunosuppresive drugs used to treat neuromuscular disorders may have side effects. The common ones are slow heart ratel, shallow or weak breathing, increased urination frequency, chest pain, increased risk of infections, high blood sugar, thinning bones, dark urine, mouth sores, diarrhea and more.

Neuromuscular disorder patients that have been put on drugs or exercising should diligently follow the dietary guidelines laid down by their therapist. They should also avoid physically rigorous activities as well as lifting weights or any other activity that puts pressure on the affected nerves.

The treatment process for neuromuscular disorders can be lifelong. The processes used though can help bring about a reduction in the symptoms of the disorder concerned.

The drugs and medications used to treat neuromuscular disorder are expensive and can cost up to Rs. 3000. As for phsyiothrapy sessions, charges range from Rs 250 to Rs 1500 per session.

Since most neuromuscular disorders are incurable by nature, the results of the treatment processes used for symptom management cannot be deemed permanent.

Gene therapy is fast evolving as a treatment option for neuromuscular disorders. However, it is still in a nascent stage and is also very costly.