Muscle disorders within the realms of neurology practice are those that affect the strength and function of skeletal muscles, rather than difficulties with muscle injuries. Dr Norwood has expertise in muscle disorders caused by genetic or acquired / inflammatory diseases.

Genetic disorders include a large number of conditions with a wide range of severity, ranging from mild limb weakness changing only slowly over decades, to rapidly-progressive limb weakness causing weakness over months. Making a diagnosis in these conditions takes experience and may still take a while to achieve. Knowledge of the precise underlying condition helps planning for the future for the individual affected, and will give an indication of possible implications for other
family members.

Inflammatory muscle diseases can begin at any time, and may start with pain and muscle weakness. These disorders are treated differently from genetic conditions and may need medication. Reaching a precise diagnosis is important in guiding onward treatment.

Some examples of papers published by Dr Norwood include:

• Prevalence of genetic muscle disease in Northern England: in-depth analysis of a muscle clinic population.
  Norwood FL, Harling C, Chinnery PF, Eagle M, Bushby K, Straub V.
  Brain. 2009 Nov;132(Pt 11):3175-86. doi: 10.1093/brain/awp236. Epub 2009 Sep 18.
• EFNS guideline on diagnosis and management of limb girdle muscular dystrophies.
  Norwood F, de Visser M, Eymard B, Lochmüller H, Bushby K; EFNS Guideline Task Force.
  Eur J Neurol. 2007 Dec;14(12):1305-12. Review.