Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis Treatment in Dr. Eber Brain Hospital

Dr. Eber Brain Hospital in Qingdao, China, provides a specialized approach to treating Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The facility combines neuroprotective Western medications with Traditional Chinese Medicine to manage motor neuron decline. Patients benefit from a multidisciplinary team that includes neurologists, respiratory therapists, and rehabilitation specialists working in a single center.

Advanced diagnostics for ALS

The hospital uses high-precision imaging and functional tests to confirm the diagnosis and track disease progression. Patients undergo a thorough evaluation to create a baseline for their treatment plan. The diagnostic process includes:

• Neurological assessment and EMG. This helps confirm motor neuron involvement and rule out other conditions.
• 3.0T MRI and PET-CT. These imaging tools provide detailed views of the brain and spinal cord structure.
• Respiratory function tests. Doctors use spirometry and MEP/MIP tests to monitor breathing muscle strength.
• ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS-R). This evaluation measures the impact of the disease on daily life.
• TCM diagnostic assessment. Physicians examine the tongue, pulse, and syndrome patterns to integrate Chinese medicine.

Neuroprotective and respiratory treatments

Treatment at the hospital focuses on slowing functional decline and extending survival through approved pharmacotherapy and respiratory support. The clinic uses Riluzole to reduce glutamate toxicity and Edaravone as an antioxidant. These drugs may slow the decline of physical functions by about 33% in early-stage patients. Proactive respiratory care is also a priority. Using non-invasive ventilation (NIV/BiPAP) and cough assist devices can extend life by 6 to 12 months compared to standard care.

Specialized rehabilitation and TCM

The hospital integrates robotic technology and ancient therapies to maintain muscle function and quality of life. The care plan includes:

• Robotic rehabilitation. The clinic uses the Locomat system and electrical stimulation to delay muscle atrophy.
• Bulbar symptom management. Speech therapy and food texture adaptation help maintain safe swallowing and communication.
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This includes acupuncture at motor points and herbal medicine like Buzhong Yiqi Tang.
• Moxa therapy. Heat therapy at specific points targets spleen and kidney energy to improve patient vitality.
• Psychological support. Individual counseling helps manage the anxiety and depression affecting many patients.

The facility features hybrid operating rooms and advanced DSA angiography for complex neurological needs. Patients can receive a free second opinion within 48 hours by providing their medical reports and EMG results. To learn more about treatment options at this clinic, you may request a consultation on Bookimed.