There’s no cure for MD, but there is a lot we can work on to overcome it. We’ll do all we can to alleviate the symptoms, learn to live with the disease and reclaim a vibrant, happy life.
Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a broad term that describes a genetic, or inherited, disorder of the muscles. It causes muscles in the body to become very weak, eventually break down and be replaced with fatty deposits. There are more than thirty specific types of muscular dystrophy, and the two most common forms are Duchenne and Becker Muscular Dystrophy – both of which seldom affect girls.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for any type of muscular dystrophy. But there’s still a lot we can work on together to overcome it. Together with INTEGRIS Health physicians, neuroscientists and experts, we’ll do all we can to alleviate the symptoms, learn to live with the disease and reclaim a vibrant, happy life.
Click here to learn about the General Neuromuscular Support Group.
Muscular dystrophy is usually diagnosed in children between 3 and 6 years of age. Early signs of the illness include a delay in walking, trouble rising from a sitting or lying position, and frequent falling. Weak shoulder and pelvic muscles are also early symptoms. The symptoms of muscular dystrophy may look like other conditions or medical problems. Always see your child's doctor for a diagnosis. These are the most common symptoms:
The diagnosis of muscular dystrophy is made with a physical exam and certain tests. During the exam, your child's doctor will take a complete prenatal and birth history of your child and ask if other family members are known to have muscular dystrophy. Tests for muscular dystrophy may include:
Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is. To date, there is no known treatment, medicine, or surgery that will cure muscular dystrophy, or stop the muscles from weakening. The goal of treatment is to prevent deformity and allow the child to function as independently as possible.
Nonsurgical treatment options include:
In some cases, surgery may be considered to manage the following conditions:
We strive to provide you with care that’s not only the best available, but care that’s convenient and as close to home as possible. These INTEGRIS Health locations near you are ready to help.
