Neuromuscular and Joint Diseases

Nerves are the wires that connect the control center- the brain and spinal cord- to the rest of our body. When you want to walk across a room, your brain sends that message down your spinal cord to your nerves, which then activates your muscles via a connection called the neuromuscular junction. The nerves, neuromuscular junction and muscles together are referred to as the neuromuscular system. When our nerves, neuromuscular junction or muscles are diseased, it often shows up as weakness, as well as muscle atrophy. Weakness may or may not be associated with activity or heavy exercise. You also may see difficulties in chewing and swallowing.

Joints are the hinges that allow your legs and arms to bend- for instance your knee or elbow. Most often, joint disease is diagnosed and treated by general surgeons. For example arthritis and hip dysplasia are common joint diseases. However, there are some joint diseases that are associated with neurologic disease, or have symptoms very similar to neurologic diseases, so they are covered here. Diseases of the joints often show up as pain or lameness.