ALS

What Is ALS?

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive condition that affects the nerve cells controlling muscle movement. It causes increasing muscle weakness and can affect walking, speaking, swallowing, and breathing.

How Is ALS Treated?

There is currently no cure for ALS, but treatments can help manage symptoms, and some may slow its progression. Care focuses on maintaining daily function and quality of life while supporting patients and their families as needs change.

ALS Care at Semmes Murphey

Semmes Murphey provides ALS care through The ALS Clinic of the Mid-South, a subsidiary of Semmes Murphey Clinic. The clinic is led by Dr. Tulio Bertorini, a neurologist and neuromuscular disease specialist.

In 2025, the clinic was designated as an ALS Association Certified Treatment Center of Excellence, recognizing its expertise and comprehensive approach to ALS care. Certified Treatment Centers of Excellence must meet rigorous eligibility criteria. Recognition is based on adherence to program standards, clinical expertise, collaboration with the ALS Association, and ongoing ALS-specific, Institutional Review Board-approved research. This designation ensures people living with ALS and their families receive the highest level of care and support.
 

A Team Approach to Care

Living with ALS brings changing needs and questions. Dr. Bertorini leads a team of specially trained health care professionals who work together to develop a comprehensive care plan for each patient.

Our approach goes beyond managing the disease. We support patients in maintaining the activities that matter to them while helping families and caregivers navigate the everyday challenges of ALS.

Read about one patient’s experience and our team’s approach to ALS care