Can the symptoms of muscle lateral sclerosis be treated in orthopedics

Patients with lateral sclerosis are usually recommended to seek medical attention from neurology rather than orthopedics. Muscle lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease involving motor neurons, characterized by muscle atrophy, muscle weakness, and pyramidal tract sign. Its diagnosis and treatment need to be completed by a specialist neurologist. Orthopedics mainly deals with injuries or structural problems of bones, joints, and muscles, and has limited diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities for neurodegenerative diseases. If symptoms such as progressive muscle weakness, muscle twitching, or difficulty swallowing speech occur, priority should be given to seeking medical attention from a neurology department. If necessary, a doctor should refer the patient to a neuromuscular disease specialist or rehabilitation department. The typical symptoms of lateral sclerosis include distal limb muscle atrophy, muscle bundle tremors, and tendon hyperreflexia, which may affect respiratory and swallowing function as the condition progresses. Neurologists will use methods such as electromyography, nerve conduction testing, and genetic testing to make a definitive diagnosis and develop a comprehensive treatment plan. Although orthopedics can treat some musculoskeletal complications such as joint contractures or scoliosis, it does not intervene in the core pathological processes of the disease. When some patients experience falls, fractures, or joint lesions due to muscle weakness, short-term joint orthopedic consultations can be conducted. However, long-term management still requires the leadership of neurology, combined with multidisciplinary collaboration such as rehabilitation and respiratory medicine. Early diagnosis is crucial for delaying the progression of the disease, as misdiagnosis or delayed treatment may accelerate functional loss. Patients should pay attention to maintaining moderate activity in daily life to prevent muscle contraction and avoid excessive fatigue. Nutritional support can prevent weight loss, and the use of assistive devices can improve quality of life. Family members should learn nursing skills and regularly follow up to evaluate changes in their condition. If there is difficulty breathing or severe swallowing disorders, seek medical attention promptly to adjust the treatment plan.