Maintaining Physical Health in Individuals with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Through Telerehabilitation

To investigate the effects of a telerehabilitation program on walking performance, lower and upper extremity function, fall frequency, respiratory function, and satisfaction in individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

Thirty children (mean age 8.8 ± 4.2 years) were ambulant (Group 1), and 12 youth (18.5 ± 4.7 years) were non-ambulant (Group 2). The telerehabilitation program was applied by physiotherapists for 24 sessions (3 days/week). The 10-meter walking test, stand up from the supine position test, the modified upper extremity performance test, repetition of Lower and upper extremity movements, and the single breath count (SBC) test were administered. Fall frequency and satisfaction level were also recorded.

Significant improvement was found after telerehabilitation in upper extremity performance, repetition of lower and upper extremity movements, fall frequency, and SBC scores in Group 1. Changes in the 10-minute Walk and Stand Up from the Supine Position tests were not significant. There was a significant improvement in SBC scores in Group 2. Satisfaction with the service was 88%.

The 8-week telerehabilitation program was effective in improving aspects of upper and lower extremity function, fall frequency, pulmonary function, and satisfaction levels in individuals with DMD.