Muscular dystrophy is a chronic condition that can cause weakness, pain, and loss of muscle mass.
Muscular dystrophy is a group of hereditary muscle diseases which are caused by abnormal proteins. It can be a debilitating condition that limits the movements and activities of an individual. It becomes harder to move. It can affect breathing and heart function, which can be life-threatening.
Muscular dystrophy is the most common inherited disease among children. It affects the skeletal muscles, heart and central nervous system. The exact cause of muscular dystrophy is unknown, but it can be passed down through families in specific gene mutations.
Muscular dystrophy symptoms vary for each person, early symptoms can include:
- a waddling gait
- pain and stiffness in the muscles
- difficulty running and jumping
- walking on the toes
- difficulty sitting up or standing
- learning disabilities, such as developing speech later than usual
- frequent falls
As the disease progresses, the following symptoms become more likely:
- inability to walk
- a shortening of muscles and tendons, further limiting movement
- breathing problems that may require assisted breathing
- the curvature of the spine if the muscles are not strong enough to support its structure
- weakening of the heart muscles, leading to cardiac problems
- difficulty swallowing, with a risk of aspiration pneumonia
Muscular Dystrophy Treatment
There are several types of therapy and assistive devices that can improve the quality and sometimes the length of life in people with Muscular Dystrophy.
Your physical therapist will design an individualized treatment plan to:
- Range-of-motion and stretching exercises – Mobility and stretching exercises can help combat the tightening of muscles and tendons, also known as contractures.
- Low-impact exercise – Standard low impact aerobic exercises like walking and swimming can also help slow the progression of symptoms.
- Braces – These keep muscles and tendons stretched, slowing their shortening.
- Mobility aids – Canes, wheelchairs, and walkers can help a person stay mobile.
- Breathing assistance – As the muscles used for breathing become weaker, a person may need devices to help them breathe while they sleep. In severe cases, they may need to use a ventilator.
After the first treatment session, you are encouraged to speak with your physiotherapist about the latest evidence-based treatments that you can try at home to minimize your child’s risk of complications or re-injury.