Motor Neurone Disease
Learn about Motor Neurone Disease and how MS Queensland can provide assistance and support.
About motor neurone disease
Motor neurone disease (MND) refers to a group of diseases in which the nerve cells, or neurones, that control certain muscles degenerate and die. As these neurones die, the muscles are left without nerves to activate them, and as a result, these muscles weaken and waste. The disease affects neurones that control the muscles associated with speech, movement, breathing and swallowing. MND can happen to anyone and the causes of the disease are not yet known.
There is no cure for MND but there may be ways of helping people better manage living with the disease.
Adjusting to life with motor neurone disease
The symptoms of motor neurone disease may be mild in the early stages and the rate of progression with vary from person to person. Some early symptoms may include*:
- Stumbling due to weakness of the leg muscles
- Difficulty holding objects caused by weakness of the hand muscles
- Slurring of speech or swallowing difficulties due to weakness of the tongue and throat muscles
- Cramps and muscle twitching
* Source: MND Queensland
For people with MND the help of families, friends and carers is vital. Symptoms can vary and the need for support can change and increase over time.
A person with MND may require support with:
- Enhancing independence, including help around the home
- Visiting and maintaining contact with family and friends
- Participating in social and recreational activities
- Financial & NDIS advice
- Exercise and health programs
- Access to therapy support, aids or equipment to keep you safe and maintain your independence
- Mental health support
How MS Queensland can help
MS Queensland has a long history of helping people with MS and other progressive neurological diseases such as motor neurone disease. We know that many of the symptoms of and treatments for MS are also common to other PNDs and we offer our knowledge, expertise and understanding in this field to a broad range of people. Some of our services include:
- Service coordination
- NDIS access assistance
- Neurophysiotherapy
- Accommodation
- Employment services
How to get help
For more information, questions, or assistance you can contact our NeuroAssist InfoLine on 1800 177 591 Monday – Friday between 8:30am – 5:00pm. You can also request a call back from one of our NeuroAssist team who will be in touch within 24 hours.
