OTTAWA NEUROMUSCULAR CENTRE
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CLINICAL CARE
Over 10,000 people are affected by neuromuscular disorders (NMDs) in the Ottawa region. Many of these disorders require a high level of expertise and the latest medical technology to diagnose. There are hundreds of different NMDs that are becoming more clinically apparent through improvements in diagnostic testing. Although treatment options for NMDs have been limited in the past, advances in genetic sequencing and personalized medicines have created new opportunities for clinical trials and improved patient outcomes.
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Here at our nation's capital, we have a one-of-a-kind facility lead by clinicians and scientists in the neuromuscular field in a world-class clinical research centre.
We have a dedicated centre with over 5000 sq ft for clinical care, diagnostics, and research, including innovative labs, clinical investigation units, examination, and treatment rooms.​​
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Motor Neuron Disease (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - ALS, Spinal muscular atrophy - SMA), is a neuromuscular disease that results in a rapid decline in normal muscle function and tone leading to difficulties with mobility, eating, drinking, breathing, sleeping, and communicating. ​
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Myasthenia gravis (MG), is a chronic autoimmune disease (where the immune system attacks receptors on cells in your body by mistake). myasthenia gravis causes muscle weakness and fatigue because of a breakdown of communication signals between nerves and muscles. Symptoms include weakness in arms and legs and drooping of the mouth and eyelids or difficulties speaking or swallowing.
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Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD1), also known as Landouzy-Dejerine’s disease, is a genetic disorder that affects muscle function. FSHD1 presents with progressive muscle weakness affecting the face, shoulders, arms, and trunk, followed by weakness of the feet, and hips. FSHD1 causes significant physical disability.
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Myotonic dystrophy, also called Steinert’s disease is a long-term genetic disorder that affects muscle function. It is the most common form of muscular dystrophy in adults, but can also affect children. Symptoms include gradually worsening muscle loss and weakness. Other symptoms may include impaired muscle relaxation, cataracts, intellectual disability, and heart conduction problems.