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Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
09:18

Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Published on: January 12, 2019

Disabilities in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy: a profile

K P Nair1, A Vasanth, M Gourie-Devi

  • 1Department of Psychiatric and Neurological Rehabilitation, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India.

Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine
|August 17, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Assessing disabilities in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is key for rehabilitation. This study found motor function significantly impacts daily life disabilities in DMD children, with the Barthel index effectively quantifying these challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rehabilitation
  • Neuromuscular Disorders
  • Clinical Assessment

Background:

  • Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive genetic disorder affecting muscle strength.
  • Effective rehabilitation requires accurate assessment of functional limitations.
  • Quantifying disabilities is crucial for tailoring interventions in pediatric DMD patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and quantify disabilities in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
  • To correlate functional impairments with specific disabilities.
  • To evaluate the utility of the Barthel index in assessing DMD-related disabilities.

Main Methods:

  • Study included 31 pediatric patients diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (age ≥ 4 years).
  • Motor function was assessed using Total Motor Score, upper/lower extremity function grades, and timed function tests.
  • Disability was quantified using the Barthel index.

Main Results:

  • Mean scores for motor scales: Total Motor Score (52 ± 7.8), Total Functional Grade (4.4 ± 1.9), Timed Function Score (12.5 ± 5.8).
  • Barthel index scores ranged from 45-95 (mean 70.8 ± 12.7).
  • Motor function scales correlated with each other and the Barthel index; 30 children exhibited multiple disabilities influenced by motor power.

Conclusions:

  • Motor impairment significantly influences the extent of daily life disabilities in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
  • The Barthel index is a valuable tool for identifying and quantifying specific functional limitations.
  • Comprehensive disability assessment is vital for effective management and rehabilitation planning in DMD.

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