Understanding the divisions of the nervous system can help one to improve understanding of neuromuscular disease. The nervous system can be divided into two broad categories – the central and peripheral nervous systems. Neuromuscular diseases directly affect the peripheral nervous system.

Having a basic understanding of the nerve cells of the peripheral nervous system can improve understanding of neuromuscular disease. While the various neuromuscular diseases differ in their cause and symptoms, each in some way affects the muscles and the nerves of the peripheral nervous system.

Often called an AFO, the term Ankle Foot Orthosis refers to a brace worn on the leg over the calf and foot. The brace supports the foot and ankle, holding the correct position and preventing foot drop. This type of brace is also sometimes called a foot drop brace.

When my physician told me to consider non-impact exercise to protect my feet from further deterioration, I resisted at first. Non-impact exercises? How could I get a good workout with non-impact exercise? One of the options I have found includes water aerobics and swimming.

For those of you with neuromuscular disease who are still ambulatory, walking may be one of the safest forms of exercise for you. Check with your physician to find out if walking would benefit you and what type of bracing or equipment might best assist you.

This year, I received an invitation to visit the MDA Summer Camp in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area on their visitor’s day. The MDA Summer Camps offer many different fun camp activities modified for the participation and enjoyment of children and teenagers who have physical disabilities.

Across the USA and Puerto, the MDA provides treatment at 200 clinics specializing in neuromuscular disease. These clinics serve individuals with over 40 types of neuromuscular disease. Through registering with their clinics, you too can receive world class medical care by a team of specialists.

While the book Tuesdays with Morrie: an old man, a young man, and life’s greatest lesson, by Mitch Albom, tells the true story of Morrie’s Schwartz’s illness and death, this book teaches as much about life and living well as it does about dying with dignity.

The Transportation Security Administration recently announced a new helpline dedicated to helping travelers with disabling conditions or medical issues called TSA Cares. This helpline was created to answer question regarding security screening for individuals with medical needs and disability.

While traveling through security checkpoints with a disability may not be easy, clear communication with the TSA Officers regarding one’s disability will simplify the process. The new TSA Disability Notification Card may make moving through airport security a little bit easier.