For Patients with Neuromuscular Disorders

The Neuromuscular Disorders Program at the UC Neuroscience Institute employs the most advanced technologies and therapies to diagnose and treat hundreds of adult patients from across the Greater Cincinnati region each year. Our physicians are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, which can encompass everything from common low back pain with lumbar nerve root compression (lumbar radiculopathy) to very specific disorders of muscle strength and deterioration (muscular dystrophy). We provide compassionate and comprehensive care to patients who are struggling with these difficult diseases.

Our goal is to treat what can be modified, improve symptom control, and increase mobility and function. Our collaborative team includes neurologists, pulmonologists, otolaryngologists, neurosurgeons, nurse clinicians, neuroscience nurses, physical and occupational therapists, and social workers. We incorporate physical therapy (legs and walking), occupational therapy (hands and arms), speech and swallowing therapy, and pulmonology to maximize our patients’ quality of life. When appropriate and beneficial, we call on surgeons to help treat specific neuromuscular conditions. We also are trained in the therapeutic use of immunosuppressants.

Advanced subspecialty training enables our physicians to perform electromyograms (EMG), the diagnostic test of choice for delineating neuromuscular disorders. We operate three neurophysiology laboratories for this purpose: one at UC Health Medical Arts Building, one at the Hoxworth Neurology Clinic and one at the UC Health University Pointe Medical Office Building.

We also partner closely with regional organizations, including the Cincinnati and Dayton Muscular Dystrophy Association and the ALS Association of Central and Southern Ohio, in coordinating patient needs and plans.