Muscle weakness is one of the earliest and most prevalent symptoms of ALS, often beginning in a specific part of the body before spreading to other areas12. This weakness typically starts gradually and may initially be dismissed as clumsiness or fatigue3. For many individuals like Eric Dane, early weakness manifests in limbs – either in the hands and arms (making it difficult to button shirts or grip objects) or in the legs (causing stumbling and falls)34. The weakness is usually asymmetrical, affecting one side of the body first56. Other early indicators that often accompany this weakness include:

• Muscle twitches and fasciculations, particularly in the feet, hands, or tongue34

• Muscle stiffness or cramping that may disturb sleep37

• Decreased coordination affecting everyday tasks5

• Fatigue and reduced endurance2

• Slurred speech or difficulty swallowing if bulbar muscles are affected early87

Eric Dane's path to an ALS diagnosis was lengthy and complex, beginning with subtle weakness in his right hand that he initially dismissed as fatigue from texting too much. As the weakness worsened over several weeks, Dane sought medical attention, starting with a hand specialist who referred him to another specialist.1 This led to consultations with multiple neurologists, with one admitting Dane's condition was "way above my pay grade."1 After nine months of medical appointments and evaluations, Dane finally received his devastating ALS diagnosis.1

The diagnostic journey for ALS typically involves ruling out other conditions that mimic its symptoms, as there is no single definitive test for the disease. For Dane, who revealed his diagnosis publicly in April 2025 at age 52, the confirmation came approximately a year and a half after his initial symptoms began.21 By the time of his diagnosis, the disease had already progressed significantly, affecting his dominant right side completely while his left side remained functioning but also showing signs of weakness.1

As ALS progresses, individuals experience increasing mobility challenges that significantly impact daily life. The disease causes gradual muscle weakness that spreads throughout the body, eventually leading to severe mobility limitations where walking becomes difficult or impossible12. For many patients like Eric Dane, this progression follows a predictable pattern - from initial weakness in one limb to the eventual need for mobility aids such as canes, walkers, and ultimately wheelchairs1.

The loss of mobility occurs in stages, with Stage 3 marking the beginning of significant mobility issues and loss of limb function2. By Stage 4, daily tasks become increasingly challenging, requiring more support from caregivers and assistive equipment2. This progressive decline not only affects physical independence but also increases the risk of complications like pressure injuries3. Most people with ALS eventually lose the ability to walk, dress, and perform other voluntary movements, with the disease typically progressing over 3-5 years, though the rate varies significantly between individuals34.