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# JAN’S ACCOMMODATION FACT SHEET SERIES

**Job Accommodations for People with**

**Myasthenia Gravis**

Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease affecting the neuromuscular junction and producing weakness of voluntary muscles. The distinctive feature of MG is fluctuating weakness of muscles, made worse by use of those muscles and improved at least partially by rest of the same muscles. Different muscle groups are affected in different patients with MG. Some have only ocular myasthenia involving the eye muscles and eyelids; others have mainly swallowing difficulties or slurred speech; others have generalized MG affecting many muscle groups. Even though specific muscle fatigue is the hallmark of MG, patients with MG do not often complain of non-specific or general fatigue.  

The following is a quick overview of some of the job accommodations that might be useful for people with MG. For a more in depth discussion, access JAN's publications at http://askjan.org/media/atoz.htm.  To discuss an accommodation situation with a consultant, contact JAN directly.

**Fatigue/Weakness:**

· Reduce or eliminate physical exertion and workplace stress 

· Schedule periodic rest breaks away from the workstation 

· Allow a flexible work schedule and flexible use of leave time 

· Allow work from home 

· Provide a scooter or other mobility aid if walking cannot be reduced

**Vision Impairment:**

· Provide large print material or screen reading software 

· Control glare by adding a glare screen to the computer 

· Install proper office lighting 

· Allow frequent rest breaks

· Magnify written material using hand/stand/optical magnifiers

· Alternate covering one eye

**Speech Impairment:**

· Provide speech amplification, speech enhancement, or other communication device 

· Use written communication, such as email or fax 

· Transfer to a position that does not require a lot of communication 

· Allow periodic rest breaks 

**Fine Motor Impairment:**

· Implement ergonomic workstation design, including alternative computer and telephone access, arm supports, writing and grip aids, a page turner and a book holder 

**Gross Motor Impairment:**

· Provide parking close to the work-site 

· Install automatic door openers 

· Provide proper ergonomics 

· Make sure materials and equipment at workstation are within reach range 

· Move workstation close to other work areas, office equipment, and break rooms 

**Resources Specifically for People with Myasthenia Gravis**

**Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America**

355 Lexington Avenue

New York, NY 10017

Toll Free: (800)541-5454

Direct:  (212) 297-2156

Fax: (212)370-9047

http://www.myasthenia.org

Updated 3/23/10.

This document was developed by the Job Accommodation Network, funded by a contract agreement from the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy (DOL079RP20426). The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the position or policy of the U.S. Department of Labor. Nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Fact Sheet Series

Job Accommodations for People with Myasthenia Gravis