Treatment Concepts for Persons With ALS

1. Anatomy, Pathophysiology, and Differential Diagnosis in ALS

Because ALS is an upper and lower motor disease, diagnosis can be difficult. This chapter will describe the effects of ALS on the motor cortex, cranial nerves, and spinal cord, with descriptions of how each stage of the disease affects these structures differently.

2. Treatment Concepts Across the Life Span

This chapter describes interventions during each stage of the disease to address the wide variety of body functions and structures affected. It describes the team of experts needed to adequately care for the numerous complications of this disease.

3. Functional Tests to Guide Treatment Design Specific to ALS

Testing for ALS guides the therapist to choose and implement appropriate interventions, including equipment, to help the patient remain as comfortable and functional as possible during decline. This chapter will present physical tests and self-report instruments recommended for ALS.

4. Medication Considerations Across Disease Progression of Older Adults With ALS

Medication does not cure ALS but can improve survival rates, make patients more comfortable, and give patients a better quality of life while managing the disease. Many patients with ALS find alternative interventions that can be both ineffective and expensive. This chapter presents a credible source to guide patients in making informed decisions about these alternative interventions.