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Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Rehabilitation

Function preservation, contracture prevention, and respiratory support in children with DMD.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department. Book Appointment →

What is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Rehabilitation?

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive neuromuscular disease caused by dystrophin gene mutation. Symptoms begin at age 2-5; wheelchair dependence develops at age 10-12, and respiratory failure and cardiomyopathy develop in the 20s.

Rehabilitation goals: 1) Contracture prevention (daily stretching, passive ROM), 2) Functional capacity preservation (mild aerobic, swimming), 3) Scoliosis monitoring and bracing, 4) Respiratory rehabilitation (IMT, assisted cough, noninvasive ventilation), 5) Mobility (power wheelchair, transfer training).

It is essential to avoid overload; eccentric exercise and excessive fatigue may accelerate muscle damage. A multidisciplinary team (neurology, PMR, pulmonology, cardiology, orthopedics, psychology, nutrition) works together. Targeted therapies such as ataluren and eteplirsen are used in some genotypes.

Symptoms

Proximal muscle weakness
Gower's sign
Gait disorder
Calf pseudohypertrophy
Scoliosis
Respiratory failure

Risk Factors

Family history (X-linked)
Male gender
Genetic mutation
Late diagnosis
Corticosteroid treatment not started
Excessive exercise

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • In motor developmental delay
  • In gait abnormality
  • In CPK elevation
  • Early if family history exists
  • When scoliosis develops

Treatment Methods

01
Daily stretching exercises
02
Mild aerobic activity (swimming)
03
Scoliosis monitoring and bracing
04
IMT (inspiratory muscle training)
05
Assisted cough techniques
06
AFO and knee-ankle orthosis
07
Power wheelchair
08
Non-invasive ventilation

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Fizik Tedavi ve Rehabilitasyon Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.