Comprehensive diagnostic services in advanced neurodiagnostic facilities lead to the design of individualized treatment plans for a broad range of neuromuscular disorders, from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – often referred to as ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease – to muscular dystrophy to various types of neuropathies and myopathies.
Our Neuromuscular Disorders Program records more than 2,000 patient visits annually, primarily adults age 18 and older. Approximately two-thirds are over the age of 50.
Our medical staff specializes in complex neuromuscular disorders that are difficult to diagnose and treat. Ongoing research includes genetic determinants influencing neuromuscular disease recurrence and origin. We work collaboratively with the UT Department of Rheumatology in designing research projects.
Our fellowship program in clinical neurophysiology is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education. Each year we train two fellows who are directly involved in the care of patients.
Visit the ALS Association to learn more about support available in Houston.
Once a diagnosis is made for a neuromuscular disorder, we use the most advanced treatment options available, ranging from immunosuppressive therapies to plasmapheresis to robotic-assisted thymectomy. Therapeutic goals are symptom driven and focused on maintaining patients at the highest level of function possible. Medical regimens are tailored to patient age, prominent symptoms and the potential side effects profile.
All medical regimens are individually constructed based on the stage of illness. We consult with a range of subspecialties in evaluation and treatment.
Our state-of-the-art Electromyography Laboratory provides comprehensive nerve conduction studies and EMG evaluations performed by staff with expertise in neurodiagnostic testing. An invaluable diagnostic tool, electromyography (EMG) results provide evidence in support of diagnoses of:
Because electrodiagnostic evaluation is an extension of clinical findings, the lab's medical specialists perform a focused neuromuscular examination, including history and physical, before conducting the electrical test.
In addition to nerve conduction and EMG, electrodiagnostic studies available at the EMG Lab include:
The EMG Lab conducts electrical studies of the lower motor neurons, including anterior horn cell, nerve root, plexus, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junction and muscles, to aid in understanding and evaluating neuromuscular disorders. Studies include:
Referring physicians receive timely reports that include recommendations for further management.
In cases with limited neuromuscular findings, our Muscle and Nerve Laboratory helps improve diagnosis by finding abnormalities at a pathologic/microscopic level. The Laboratory is dedicated to providing accurate and timely results to physicians ordering biopsies for diagnostic testing.
The Muscle and Nerve Laboratory accepts surgical specimens obtained elsewhere for processing and interpretation. Specimens are accepted Monday through Friday – skin biopsy kits and shipping services are provided at no charge. Muscle, nerve and skin biopsies are performed by specialists trained in neuromuscular pathology.
Please fill out the fields below, and we will contact you.