Frances Theunissen is a neurologist based in Murdoch, WA, Australia. She works with people who are dealing with motor neuron conditions that affect how the brain and nerves control movement.
Her work includes amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease. She also looks after people with primary lateral sclerosis. These conditions can change day to day. Sometimes symptoms move slowly, and other times they feel sudden and hard to plan around.
Neurology visits for motor neuron disease are often about more than just tests and scans. There’s also the day-to-day side of living with the condition. Over time, many people need help with things like muscle strength, walking and balance, speech changes, and trouble with swallowing. Frances looks at the full picture so care can be steady and realistic.
In many cases, treatment planning also means working with a team. Neurologists often coordinate with other health professionals so patients get support that fits their situation. That can include advice to help manage symptoms and reduce strain on the body. It can also mean thinking ahead about what might help later, not just what’s happening today.
Motor neuron diseases can be emotionally heavy for patients and families. Appointments can bring lots of questions, and at times it can feel like there’s never enough time to cover everything. Frances focuses on clear communication, so people understand what’s going on and what options exist. She aims to keep things calm and practical.
If you’re coming in with new symptoms, you may want answers about what might be causing them. If you already have a diagnosis, you may be looking for guidance on the next steps and what to watch for. Frances supports both situations, and she reviews how the condition is tracking so plans can be adjusted when needed.
The key for Frances is staying grounded. Neurology care should feel steady, not rushed. For people in and around Murdoch, her clinic offers help for ALS and primary lateral sclerosis, with a focus on symptom care, planning, and support as the condition changes.