The brain controls the movements of skeletal (voluntary) muscles via specialised nerves. The combination of the nervous system and muscles, working together to permit movement, is known as the neuromuscular system.
Symptoms of neuromuscular disorders
The symptoms of neuromuscular disease vary according to the condition and may be mild, moderate or life threatening. Some of these symptoms may include:
- Muscular weakness
- Muscle wastage
- Muscular cramps
- Muscle spasticity (stiffness), which later causes joint or skeletal deformities
- Muscle pain
- Breathing difficulties
- Swallowing difficulties.
Causes of neuromuscular disorders
Some of the causes may include:
- Genetic mutation
- Viral infection
- Autoimmune disorder
- Hormonal disorder
- Metabolic disorder
- Dietary deficiency
- Certain drugs and poisons
- Unknown factors.