Neuromuscular Disorders
Bridging Strength, Nerve, and Hope — One Step at a Time
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we care for children with conditions that affect both the nerves and the muscles — a group known as neuromuscular disorders.
These conditions can cause weakness, fatigue, coordination issues, or even breathing and swallowing challenges.
Some are inherited. Others appear suddenly. All deserve careful, continuous care that adapts with your child’s needs.
Our Pediatric Neurology team offers comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, and support across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain.
What Are Neuromuscular Disorders?
Neuromuscular disorders affect how signals travel between the brain, nerves, and muscles — leading to weakness or poor muscle function.
They include:
- Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)
- Peripheral Neuropathies (e.g., Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease)
- Myasthenia Gravis
- Muscle Channelopathies
- Metabolic or mitochondrial muscle diseases
Symptoms may vary but often include:
- Muscle weakness or wasting
- Poor reflexes or floppy tone in infants
- Difficulty with walking, feeding, or breathing
- Episodes of fatigue or fluctuating strength
- Delayed motor milestones or frequent falls
These disorders often require multispecialty care — and a family-centered approach.
When Should You Seek a Neurology Evaluation?
You should consult a Pediatric Neurologist if your child:
- Shows unexplained muscle weakness or coordination issues
- Has abnormal gait, posture, or frequent tripping
- Seems to tire easily or has trouble with feeding/swallowing
- Was diagnosed with elevated CK or suspected nerve conduction issues
- Has a family history of neuromuscular disease
- Is being monitored after NICU stay or genetic testing
Early identification allows us to prevent complications and plan meaningful interventions.
How We Diagnose and Manage Neuromuscular Disorders
Here’s how we support children through the full spectrum of care:
- Detailed History and Physical Exam: We review onset, pattern of weakness, and family background.
- Neurological and Functional Assessment: This helps pinpoint whether the issue is nerve, muscle, or junction.
- Electrodiagnostic Testing: EMG and nerve conduction studies may be recommended in older children.
- Genetic and Blood Testing: We explore enzyme levels, DNA panels, and metabolic markers.
- Integrated Management Plan: Therapy, rehabilitation, respiratory support, nutrition, and sometimes medication are coordinated in a long-term plan.
We don’t just chase test results — we build a care journey tailored to your child.
Why Families Trust KidsHeart
- Pediatric Neurologists experienced in complex neuromuscular care
- Coordination with EMG testing, physiotherapy, and genetics
- Long-term monitoring and family education
- Compassionate guidance during both diagnosis and follow-up
- Clinics in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain
Because complex doesn’t have to mean confusing — not when you have the right team.
Dr. Azhar Daoud
Consultant & Prof, Pediatric & Child Neurology
Dr. Imad Yassin
Consultant Pediatrician/ Pediatric Neurologist – FRCPCH(UK) | Facharzt, FAMAP, Pediatric Neurology Cert (Austria)
Let’s Build a Plan Together.
If you suspect a neuromuscular condition — or need a team for long-term care — we’re here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Many are chronic, but some can be managed effectively with early intervention, therapy, or targeted treatments.
Some conditions are progressive, others are stable. That’s why diagnosis and follow-up are key.
It helps confirm the diagnosis and plan future care — sometimes including targeted treatments.
Not always. EMG is considered based on age, symptoms, and exam findings.
We typically review every 3–6 months, adjusting based on the condition and support needs.