Muscular Dystrophy and Other Neuromuscular Diseases

Here is a thoughtful new book for professionals who assist persons afflicted with neuromuscular disorders to help them and their families adapt to lifestyle changes accompanying the onset of these disorders. Health care professionals provide strategies to maintain the psychosocial well-being of children and adults with neuromuscular disorders which, in addition to physical damage, also assault the sense of self and challenge the individual's ability to move and communicate. Chapters describe the psychosocial aspects of a variety of neuromuscular diseases such as Duchenne and myotonic muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Friedeich's ataxia, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. The distinctive characteristics of each disease are examined with special attention given to the natural history, treatment, management, and psychosocial issues of the specific disorder. Beyond the clinical and research importance of Muscular Dystrophy and Other Neuromuscular Diseases, it also addresses the anxiety, doubts, and questions felt by patients with chronic progressive disabilities and their families. This helpful guide is unique in the way it features the interaction of professionals in the social services, psychology, religion, and various medical specialties in the care and treatment of these patients. Professionals in all of these disciplines, as well as the patients and families afflicted by these disorders, will benefit from this valuable resource.