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Updated: Mar 16, 2026
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Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Published on: January 12, 2019
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Relationship between muscle strength and motor function in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Milene F Nunes1, Michele E Hukuda1, Francis M Favero2
1Universidade de São Paulo, Faculdade de Medicina, Departamento de Fisioterapia, Fonoaudiologia e Terapia Ocupacional, São Paulo SP, Brasil;
Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
|August 4, 2016
Summary
Muscle strength and motor function are strongly correlated in non-ambulatory patients. These measures appear to decrease proportionally in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Muscle strength and motor function are critical for daily activities.
- Assessing these functions is essential for managing neuromuscular disorders.
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) significantly impacts muscle and motor capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the correlation between muscle strength and motor function.
- To investigate the relationship of these variables with age in non-ambulatory patients.
- To understand the progression of functional decline in DMD.
Main Methods:
- 40 non-ambulatory patients were assessed.
- Muscle strength was quantified using the Medical Research Council (MRC) scale.
- Motor function was evaluated with the Motor Function Measure (MFM).
- Spearman correlation tests were employed to analyze relationships.
Main Results:
- A strong correlation was observed between total MRC and MFM scores (r = 0.94; p < 0.001).
- No significant correlation was found between muscle strength/motor function and age (p > 0.05).
- Partial muscle strength and motor function scores showed strong to moderate relationships.
- Higher correlations were noted between total scores and MFM Dimensions 2 (axial/proximal control) and 3 (distal control).
Conclusions:
- Muscle strength and motor function are closely interrelated.
- These functions appear to decline proportionally in individuals with DMD.
- The findings highlight the importance of assessing both strength and function for DMD management.
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