Myasthenia Gravis

Myasthenia Gravis (“MG”) is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes weakness of certain muscles.  

• MG is classified as an autoimmune disorder as the body’s immune system attacks the receptors in the body that allow the nerves and muscles to communicate with each other.
• The cause is unknown
• Any voluntary muscle may be affected, but the eye muscles, face muscles, and muscles that control breathing and limb movement are most likely to be affected
• Most people occasionally experience periods of generalized weakness
• Symptoms generally worsen with physical activity and improve with rest

SYMPTOMS

• Weakened eye muscles may lead to blurred or double vision
• If the limbs are affected, people may have difficulty walking or performing activities of daily living

HOW WE CAN HELP

• At Q Enrichment Center, our Occupational Therapist will conduct an extensive comprehensive assessment to determine the type of difficulty, the severity and the effects it has on activities of daily living. A detailed report will be completed along with a treatment plan specific to each individual’s needs.  Recommendations for the safest diet will be made in order to avoid any further health complications.
• Intervention would focus on:
  • finding alternative methods / compensatory strategies to perform activities of daily living (e.g. bathing, dressing, using the toilet)
  • assessing the home and work environment to identify potential hazards and to create a more functional environment specific to the clients’ needs
  • recommending special equipment or assistive devices for use at home, school or work
  • teaching the client and caregiver how to properly use adaptive equipment, like orthotics, braces, or wheelchairs
  • recommending exercises to maintain fine motor skills and coordination
  • educating the client on energy effectiveness strategies and stress management techniques
  • environmental and behavioural modifications (home and job-site)

Motor Neuron Disease (“MND”)

Motor Neuron Disease (“MND”) or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (“ALS”) is a progressive neurological disease that affects the nerve cells of the brain and spinal cord impacting voluntary muscle movement.

• MND or ALS results in progressive muscle weakness and wasting, usually first affecting limbs, trunk regions, without sensory disturbance
• Can lead to decreasing mobility and postural changes
• Can affect adults of any age

SYMPTOMS

• Individuals stumbling, falls or trips
• Foot drop
• Loss of dexterity
• Weakened grip
• Cramps
• Tremors
• Change in voice quality, such as quiet or slurred speech
• Muscle wasting
• Loss of function in limbs
• Weakness and wasting of muscles of the trunk and neck

HOW WE CAN HELP

• At Q Enrichment Center, our Occupational Therapist will conduct an extensive comprehensive assessment to determine the type of difficulty, the severity and the effects it has on activities of daily living. A detailed report will be completed along with a treatment plan specific to each individual’s needs.
• Intervention would focus on:
  • finding alternative methods / compensatory strategies to perform activities of daily living (e.g. bathing, dressing, using the toilet)
  • assessing the home and work environment to identify potential hazards and to create a more functional environment specific to the clients’ needs
  • recommending special equipment or assistive devices for use at home, school or work
  • teaching the client and caregiver how to properly use adaptive equipment, like orthotics, braces or wheelchairs
  • recommending exercises to maintain fine motor skills and coordination
  • educating the client and caregiver on energy effectiveness strategies and stress management techniques
  • environmental and behavioural modifications (home and job-site)

Testimonials