What is ALS?

ALS, formally known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, is a rare family of neurological diseases that involve the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movement, such as chewing, walking, breathing and talking. ALS is progressive, where the condition becomes more severe over time. ALS is also know as Lou Gehrig's Disease.

ALS Symptoms

ALS symptoms can initially be so subtle that they are overlooked. Nevertheless, the symptoms develop into more obvious weakness or atrophy that may cause a physician to suspect ALS.

Early ALS symptoms may include:

• Muscle twitches in the arm, leg, shoulder, or tongue.
• Muscle cramps.
• Tight and stiff muscles (spasticity).
• Muscle weakness affecting an arm, a leg, neck or diaphragm.
• Slurred and nasal speech.
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing.

The first sign of ALS may appear in the hand or arm as one has trouble with simple tasks such as buttoning a shirt, writing, or turning a key in a lock. Regardless of where the symptoms first appear, muscle weakness and atrophy spread to other parts of the body as the disease progresses. Individuals may develop problems with moving, swallowing (dysphagia), speaking or forming words (dysarthria), and breathing (dyspnea). Although the sequence of emerging symptoms and the rate of disease progression vary from person to person, eventually individuals will not be able to stand or walk, get in or out of bed on their own, or use their hands and arms.

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What Causes ALS?

The cause of ALS is unknown, and scientists do not yet know why ALS strikes some people and not others. However, evidence from scientific studies suggests that both genetics and environment play a role in the development of ALS. An important step toward determining ALS risk factors was made in 1993 when scientists supported by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) discovered that mutations in the SOD1 gene were associated with some cases of familial ALS. ALS researchers are also studying the impact of environmental factors. Researchers are investigating many possible causes such as exposure to toxic or infectious agents, viruses, physical trauma, diet, and behavioral and occupational factors.

Who Gets ALS?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate that between 14,000 - 15,000 Americans have ALS.

There are several potential risk factors for ALS including:

• Age. Although the disease can strike at any age, symptoms most commonly develop between the ages of 55 and 75.
• Gender. Men are slightly more likely than women to develop ALS. However, as age increases, the difference between men and women disappears.
• Race and ethnicity. Caucasians and non-Hispanics are most likely to develop the disease.

How is ALS Treated?

Presently, there is no cure for ALS. However, there are treatments available that can help control symptoms, prevent unnecessary complications, and make living with the disease easier.

They include:

• Medication
• Physical therapy
• Speech therapy
• Nutritional support
• Breathing support

ALS Research

The mission of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) is to seek fundamental knowledge about ALS. The goals of NINDS research on ALS are to understand the mechanisms involved in the development and progression of the disease, investigate the influence of genetics and other potential risk factors, identify biomarkers, and develop new and more effective treatments.

ALS Areas of Research

• Cellular defects
• Stem cells
• Familial versus sporadic ALS
• Biomarkers
• Exploration of new treatment options

Power Wheelchair and Assistive Technology Solutions for ALS

For many people living with ALS, maintaining mobility, comfort, communication, and independence become increasingly important as physical abilities change over time. Quantum Rehab® has earned its reputation as the nation’s most trusted name in complex rehab power wheelchairs by continually advancing the standard for personalized mobility technology and clinically sophisticated seating solutions. Designed with both innovation and compassion in mind, Quantum Rehab power wheelchairs can be configured as part of an assistive-technology plan that supports mobility, positioning, device access, and daily independence as ALS progresses.

Quantum TRU-Balance® 4 Power Positioning Systems can help address ALS-related needs for pressure relief, posture support, fatigue management, and more comfortable repositioning throughout the day. Power tilt, anterior tilt, recline, elevating leg rests, adjustable seat elevation, and programmable seating positions may reduce the effort required to shift posture, improve functional reach, and support participation in daily routines while helping caregivers assist more safely when needed.

As ALS affects hand strength or dexterity, Quantum Q-Logic 3 electronics provide flexible access options that can be matched to available movement. Minimal-force joysticks, switches, head arrays, sip-and-puff access, Bluetooth®, and environmental controls can help a user operate the chair, communication technology, compatible smart devices, and home equipment through one integrated system.

An ALS wheelchair should be planned as a changing access platform, not only as transportation. With intelligent seating technology, advanced electronics, and deeply personalized customization, Quantum power wheelchairs are thoughtfully designed to support greater independence, confidence, comfort, and meaningful everyday interaction for individuals living with ALS.

Please click here for more information on Quantum Power Chair solutions for those living with ALS.