Muscular dystrophy

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Superficial anterior muscles

Inherited myopathy; MD

There are no known cures for the various muscular dystrophies. The goal of treatment is to control symptoms.

Physical therapy may help patients maintain muscle strength and function. Orthopedic appliances such as braces and wheelchairs can improve mobility and self-care abilities. In some cases, surgery on the spine or legs may help improve function.

Corticosteroids taken by mouth are sometimes prescribed to children to keep them walking for as along as possible.

The person should be as active as possible. Complete inactivity (such as bedrest) can make the disease worse.

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining support groups where members share common experiences and problems. See muscular dystrophy - support group.

The severity of disability depends on the type of muscular dystrophy. All types of muscular dystrophy slowly get worse, but how fast this happens widely varies. Some types of muscular dystrophy are deadly.

• Scoliosis
• Joint contractures
• Decreased mobility
• Decreased ability to care for self
• Mental impairment (varies)
• Cardiomyopathy
• Respiratory failure

Call your health care provider if the symptoms suggestive of muscular dystrophy occur.

Call your health care provider if there is a personal or family history of muscular dystrophy and you are planning to have children.

Review Date: 09/10/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel Kantor, M.D., Director of the Comprehensive MS Center, Neuroscience Institute, University of Florida Health Science Center, Jacksonville, FL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.