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Medical ConditionsALS is also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. It is a progressive disease which
means that it gets worse with time. It affects all the nerves in the body and
leads to muscle weakness and eventually paralysis. This disease progresses rather
fast and many people with it die within 3 years of diagnosis. At this time,
there is no cure.
The major problems found in people with ALS are progressing weakness, pain, decreasing joint range of movement, loss of the ability to do certain functional activities, and severe breathing problems. As muscles get weaker, these problems get worse. ALS does not affect the mind. Mental acuity remains sharp.
Physical therapists can help patients compensate for the changes that occur as they lose more abilities, and help to increase their quality of life.
Here are some good web pages with helpful information about ALS:
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Neurological Conditions
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