What is myopathy?
Myopathies are a group of disorders that primarily affect the muscles. They are characterised by abnormalities in the structure or function of the muscles, leading to muscle weakness, stiffness, or other muscular problems.
What are common types of myopathies?
Some common types of myopathies include:
- Muscular dystrophy
- Inflammatory myopathies
- Metabolic myopathies
- Congenital myopathies
What are the common symptoms of myopathy?
The symptoms of myopathies can vary depending on the specific type of myopathy, its underlying cause and the extent of muscle involvement.
Below some common symptoms that individuals with myopathies may experience:
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Muscle stiffness
- Muscle cramps or spasms
- Breathing problems
Diagnosis
We will conduct a thorough evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis. If a type of myopathy is suspected, your doctor may arrange a combination of the following assessments to confirm the diagnosis:
- Medical history
- Physical examination
- Muscle biopsy
- Genetic testing
- Blood tests
- Electromyography (EMG)
- Medical imaging such as an MRI or ultrasound
Get referred
To receive a diagnosis or treatment from an Epworth specialist, the first step is to schedule an appointment with your GP and request a referral.
Treatment and management
Your Epworth care team will work together with you and your family to plan the best approach to treatment and symptom management.
Your Epworth neurologist may suggest the following to help manage and reduce the impact of your symptoms:
Medications
Your neurologist may prescribe medication to manage symptoms.
Rehabilitation
Managing the impact of myopathies on daily life and overall wellbeing is essential. Rehabilitation at Epworth aims to maximise your physical and cognitive independence, while also providing emotional and psychological support for you and your family.
Ongoing management
Your Epworth care team will arrange follow-up appointments to assess treatment effectiveness and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Genetic counselling
For inherited myopathies, genetic counselling may be offered to individuals and their families. Learn more about the genetic counselling service at Epworth Freemasons.
Our locations
For myopathy
Treatment locations
Your care team at Epworth
The multidisciplinary team for myopathy includes a specialist neurologist, occupational therapist and speech pathologist.
Learn more about the health professionals in the neurology care team.
Choosing your Epworth specialist
Meet our specialist neurologists and neurosurgeons, accredited at Epworth.