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URL of this page: https://medlineplus.gov/neuromusculardisorders.html

Neuromuscular Disorders

Summary

Neuromuscular disorders affect your neuromuscular system. They can cause problems with:

  • The nerves that control your muscles
  • Your muscles
  • Communication between your nerves and muscles

These disorders can cause your muscles to become weak and waste away. You may also have symptoms such as spasms, twitching, and pain.

Examples of neuromuscular disorders include:

There can be different causes for these diseases. Many of them are genetic.This means they are inherited (run in families) or are caused by a new mutation in your genes. Some neuromuscular disorders are autoimmune diseases. Sometimes the cause is unknown.

Many neuromuscular diseases have no cure. But treatments may improve symptoms, increase mobility, and lengthen life.

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Reference Desk

  • Apraxia From the National Institutes of Health (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) Also in Spanish
  • Hypertonia From the National Institutes of Health (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  • Myotonia From the National Institutes of Health (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  • Spasticity From the National Institutes of Health (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)

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The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.