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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis(ALS) is a specific disorder that involves the death of neurons that control voluntary muscles. ALS is characterized by stiff muscles, muscle twitching and gradually working weakness due to muscles decreasing in size. Also, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis results in a difficulty speaking, swelling, and eventually not being able to breath on your Niown. ALS affects the brain and spinal chord muscles which leads to death or no control over these voluntary muscles.
The cause of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis(ALS) is unknown in about ninety five percent of cases and the other five percent are inherited from a parent. There is no known cure for
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, however, …show more content…
Most people with ALS die from respiratory failure, usually within three to five years from receiving the symptoms. Difficulty in chewing and swallowing makes eating very difficult and increases the risk of choking or of aspirating food into the lungs. In later stages of the disorder aspiration pneumonia can develop, and maintaining a healthy weight can become a significant problem that may require a feeding tube. Physical therapy plays a large role in rehabilitation for individuals with ALS. Specifically, physical and occupational therapists can set goals and promote benefits for individuals with ALS by delaying loss of strength, maintaining endurance, limiting pain, preventing complications, and promoting functional …show more content…
Low-impact activities of daily living, walking, swimming, and stationary bicycling can strengthen unaffected muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and help patients fight fatigue and depression. Range of motion and stretching exercises can help prevent painful spasticity and shortening of muscles. Physical and occupational therapists can show you exercises that provide these benefits without overworking muscles. They can suggest devices such as ramps, braces, walkers, bathroom equipment like shower chairs, toilet risers, and wheelchairs that help patients remain mobile. Occupational therapists can provide or recommend equipment and adaptations to enable people to retain as much safety and independence in activities of daily living as possible. In conclusion, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a deadly disease that can be controlled but can also be deadly.

Works Cited
"Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS)." : Symptoms and Signs. N.p., n.d. Web. 31 July 2016.
MacIntosh, James. "Muscular Dystrophy / ALS Neurology / Neuroscience ALS: Causes, Symp- toms and Treatments." MediLexicon International Limited., n.d. Web
"Symptoms and Diagnosis." The ALS Association. N.p., n.d. Web.
"What Is a Ventilator?" - NHLBI, NIH.
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