Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that attacks the neurons that control motor function. 

These motor functions include our ability to use our hands, arms, legs, to walk, to communicate, to swallow, and most importantly our ability to breath.  In some cases, ALS can impact someone's ability to think, and the impact to cognitive function may be severe. 

Given that ALS is a disabling and progressive disease, we have taken a multidisciplinary approach to caring for our ALS population at MetroHealth.

Patients in our ALS Clinic are evaluated on the same day by a team of specialists:

• neuromuscular trained neurologists
• pulmonologists
• respiratory therapists
• physical therapists
• occupational therapists
• speech therapists
• social workers
• nurses

Patients may also meet with representatives from both the ALS Association and the Muscular Dystrophy Association, with whom our clinic is affiliated. 

At the conclusion of the clinic day, each patient's case is discussed during our multi-disciplinary conference to collaborate in optimizing the care for the individual patient. 

In addition, as there may be a genetic component to ALS, our clinic works closely with our MetroHealth Genetics Department to offer genetic testing for this rare disease.  As our understanding of ALS continues to evolve, we strive to stay up to date on the latest research and medical therapies at MetroHealth.