The goals of treatment should be patient-tailored and not physician tailored.

 

For the majority of patient with respiratory compromise due to neuromuscular diseases, a cure is not possible and many times even significant improvement in the underlying condition is not realistic.

 

yet, numerous studies and the experience of physicians taking care of such patients have shown that even with significant compromise in physical ability, life can be very fulfilling, given the proper support and physical and social surroundings. 

 

Rehabilitation does not necessarily mean improvement of physical function (although this is clearly a desirable goal) but could be a better adjustment of the physician and social surroundings, in a way which will allow social engagement and contribution to the society. 

 

Alyn hospital in Israel is an example of how this is achieved in the pediatric population.