Just dropped in to say hello. I found this site today, and I think its a GOD send for all looking for answers to the unknown. I was recently tested for ALS. After my left arm became weak, and atrophy occurred in my left shoulder, my neurosurgeon decided to correct a surgery of c5,c6,c7, after the surgery,and therapy,my arm was no better, then I was concerned about my right arm becoming weaker to! After thearpy, they said they saw weakness in my right arm. The neuro then sent me to a neurologist. He did the emg,bloodwork,and physical exam. He sent me to Houston ALS Hospital for more test. They did a muscle biopsy, breathing, physical movement, bloodwork. Actually 2 days worth.
They could not conclude it was ALS
However, motor neuron disease, which can be anything from ALS, PLS,PMA, depending on weather you have upper,lower,or both affected motor neurons.
My DR, says I have PLS, which is not considered fatal as is PMA, or ALS, however, all people are not affected the same way or have all the same symptoms.
From the research I have been doing on the internet, and talking with people who have the symptoms, I have almost come to the conclusion that it is still a very hard disease to diagnose. I am still looking for answers, and will constantly worry about my condition, until I am certain of the diagnosis
there are a lot of good sites on ALS, and motor neuron diseases, but remember, have your neurologist send you to an ALS facility and get the proper test done.
God Bless all who have and are worried about this disease, Keep Positive thoughts.

Hello. I am sorry to hear of all that you are going through. You are right about a lot of good sites about ALS. I did my share of research and worring when my father was diagnosed. It got so bad, I would take my research to my dad's doctor appointments and demand certain tests should be done. They can be so slow sometimes. I hope you find your answer soon. It is the unkowning that is the hardest. This site is a good one. I sure have used it to the fullest. Sorry if I sound weird or frustrated in some of my posts. This disease is terrible. It can be hard to watch, or read. I thank you in advance and pray that you will be alright no matter what happens.