Rehabilitation in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Case Report

Background: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) seems to be the most common X-linked muscular dystrophy condition in children marked by proximal muscle weakness and calf hypertrophy and affected mostly in boys. In more than 20 muscular dystrophies the most prevalent form is Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Each 1/3500 male births, the presence of DMD worldwide, indicating that in the UK alone there are approximately 2400 people living with DMD. Assessing improvements in severity, range of motion and functional mobility, implementation of therapies and guidance on positioning are important key factors.

Clinical Finding: Mostly in proximal muscles around the hips and shoulders, which are those around the trunk of the body, muscle weakness occurs mainly. In the lower extremities, weakness usually begins proximally, and then passes distally. Symptoms typically begin about the age of 1-3 years. To see the child run and get up off the floor while searching for signs of DMD is necessary.

Diagnosis: A very common physical finding in boys with Duchenne's is Gower's Sign. In order to get up, it requires using their hands to 'climb' their legs. It is because of a weakness in the boy's hip muscles, which was seen in this patient in progressive in nature. The proper examination and evaluation the symptoms the child presented to the physiotherapy clinic played an important in reaching to the diagnosis of the condition.

Conclusion: Prevent the child from developing contracture, correct posture of the child and maintain quality of life these are important criteria in for the child suffered from Duchenne muscular dystrophy.