Montefiore Medical Center's Division of Neuromuscular Disease specializes in the myriad complex diseases of the muscles and nerves. Our team of highly skilled physicians and surgeons is dedicated to helping patients cope with diverse disorders, from carpal tunnel syndrome to muscular dystrophy—and provide treatment that reduces discomfort and improves their quality of life.
Most of our patients come to us complaining of acute or chronic numbness, weakness or pain—for which there are hundreds of possible causes. We specialize in the often challenging process of evaluating unexplained muscle pain or weakness, identifying a number of myopathies (muscular disorders) and neuropathies (nerve disorders.)
Our specialists are well-equipped to properly diagnose specific causes of neuromuscular disorders. We begin with an in-depth patient consultation. We then conduct electrodiagnostic tests to evaluate nerve and muscle function, including electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies, quantitative sensory testing (QST), repetitive stimulation studies and single fiber EMG. Additional nerve and muscle biopsies and genetic and antibody screening tests are performed, if indicated.
We excel at evaluating motor neuron diseases—a group of progressive, degenerative nerve disorders that includes amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease). We are equally skilled at managing diseases of the neuromuscular junction such as myasthenia gravis, a chronic but highly treatable condition causing weakness in the voluntary muscles.
In addition, Montefiore treats a number of nerve injuries and peripheral neuropathies—damage to the nerves that transmit crucial information from the spinal cord and brain to the rest of the body. We specialize in identifying the underlying problem, such as diabetes, uremia, alcoholism or nutritional deficiencies, from among multiple possibilities. This group of disorders also includes entrapment neuropathies—like carpal tunnel syndrome—caused by compression of nerves.
Regardless of the neuromuscular disorder, Montefiore is uniquely prepared to pursue a course of treatment that may include drug intervention, surgery, symptom management or physical and occupational therapy. We excel in all areas of neuromuscular treatment, working closely with the departments of neurosurgery and rehabilitation medicine.
Many neuromuscular disorders are chronic in nature and require long-term therapy. Montefiore forges therapeutic partnerships with patients to ensure they receive the proper tools, support and care to manage their disease over time. We strive to minimize the effects of neuromuscular disease on our patients' daily lives.
As a leader in our field, Montefiore is conducting clinical research into neuromuscular disorders and potential treatments. Our areas of interest include the hereditary neuropathies, the effects of aging on neuropathic conditions, entrapment neuropathies (carpal tunnel syndrome), and neurotoxicology.
Montefiore extends our vast expertise through extensive training of fellows and residents in neuromuscular consultation and electrodiagnosis. We are educating the next generation of highly qualified physicians to tackle the wide-ranging field of neuromuscular disorders.