Neurodegenerative Diseases We Treat

Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis can bring unexpected changes to your life. With treatments and support from an experienced medical team, many people enjoy years of happy memories and independent living. At Henry Ford Health, our experts are dedicated to improving the lives of thousands of patients living with neurodegenerative conditions every year.

What are neurodegenerative diseases?

Neurodegenerative diseases occur when neurons (key cells of the brain and spinal cord) stop working as they should. Neurons typically relay messages between different parts of the brain and to the rest of the body.

But with neurodegenerative diseases, this communication breaks down when neurons are damaged or die (neurodegeneration). These cells do not replace themselves. Without them, your brain cannot continue functioning the way it used to. Neurodegeneration causes problems affecting memory, movement and thinking.

Neurodegenerative disease care at Henry Ford: Why choose us?

Neurodegenerative diseases are lifelong illnesses, and our team is here for you through every turn. You receive personalized care from highly skilled neurologists, many of whom are leaders in their field. Our team also includes nurses and therapists who guide and support you through treatment. We take time to get to know you so we can tailor our recommendations as your needs change.

Highlights of our program include:

• Comprehensive care: We perform a thorough evaluation including advanced testing in our electromyography lab for some conditions. Your care may include newly approved medications or sophisticated surgeries. And our therapists help you maintain your independence for as long as possible. Explore neurodegenerative diseases evaluation and treatment.
• Clinical trials: Through research, we are uncovering ways of making life better for people with neurodegenerative diseases. Our efforts give you access to clinical trials for new care methods and treatment options that are not widely available. Find out more about neurodegenerative diseases research and innovation.
• Support for you and your loved ones: We help families navigate the emotional and practical challenges of living with neurodegenerative disease. Our offerings include support groups and referrals to helpful community resources. Read more about our C.A.R.E. Program.

Neurodegenerative diseases we treat

Conditions we treat include:

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) attacks neurons that control movement, leading to muscle weakness and, in later stages, paralysis. Learn more about ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).
• Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia that typically occurs in older adults and affects thinking and memory. Read more about Alzheimer's disease.
• Dementias cause a decline in mental skills that makes once-simple tasks like getting dressed difficult or impossible. Get more information about dementias.
• Multiple sclerosis (MS) causes the immune system to attack neurons. The attacks leave scars that prevent the brain from communicating with other parts of the body. Find out more about multiple sclerosis (MS).
• Myasthenia gravis affects neurons’ ability to communicate with muscles, leading to unusual tiredness that can come on suddenly. Learn more about myasthenia gravis.
• Normal pressure hydrocephalus causes an abnormal buildup of spinal fluid in the brain that causes symptoms similar to neurodegenerative disorders. Get more information about normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).