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Updated: May 28, 2026
Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Published on: January 12, 2019
Innovations in assistive technology in pediatric Duchenne muscular dystrophy: A scoping review
1Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India.
Insights
Assistive technologies show promise for improving the quality of life and function in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Further research with robust clinical trials is needed to confirm efficacy and integrate these innovations into standard care.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Rehabilitation Technology
- Pediatric Neuromuscular Disorders
Background:
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive X-linked genetic disorder causing muscle weakness and loss of mobility.
- Increased survival rates in DMD necessitate advanced assistive technologies for daily living and improved quality of life.
- There is a growing need to understand current assistive technology advancements for children with DMD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review recent assistive technologies for children with DMD.
- To identify emerging research trends and existing gaps in assistive technology literature for DMD.
- To inform future development and clinical application of these technologies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, PEDro, and Scopus databases up to November 2025.
- Adherence to the PRISMA ScR protocol for study selection and data synthesis.
- Narrative synthesis of data focusing on device types, functional domains, outcomes, and limitations.
Main Results:
- Twenty studies were included, featuring exoskeletons, robotic devices, virtual reality, wearable sensors, and orthotics.
- Technologies explored include gait exoskeletons, robotic assistance, virtual reality interventions, and wearable sensor systems.
- Identified limitations include small sample sizes, short follow-up periods, prototype designs, and inconsistent outcome measures.
Conclusions:
- Assistive technologies hold potential to enhance quality of life and functional abilities in children with DMD.
- Well-designed clinical trials with long-term follow-up are crucial for establishing clinical efficacy and feasibility.
- User-centered design and integration into standard pediatric rehabilitation are key for successful implementation.
Significance:
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressively debilitating genetic condition linked to the X chromosome, characterized by gradual muscle weakening, leading to loss of mobility and reduced autonomy in affected youngsters. Improved medical care has led to higher survival rates, resulting in a greater demand for assistive technologies that aid mobility, upper limb function, and daily activities to improve long-term quality of life.
Aim:
To systematically document recent advancements in assistive technologies and identify current research trends and gaps in the literature that are relevant for children with DMD.
Approach:
PubMed, PEDro and Scopus databases were searched from inception to November 2025 from studies published in recent years focusing on assistive technologies for children with DMD. The PRISMA ScR protocol was followed and Quality was assessed using Sackett level of evidence. Data were synthesized narratively to describe device characteristics, targeted functional domains, reported outcomes, and study limitations.
Results:
Out of 1029 records, 20 eligible studies were identified, with 8 using exoskeleton or robotic devices, 4 employing gait exoskeleton, 2 utilizing virtual reality, 5 incorporating wearable sensor systems or digital biomarkers, and 1 utilizing an orthotic device. However, most studies were limited by small sample sizes, short follow-up durations, prototype-based designs, and a lack of standardized outcome measures.
Conclusion:
Quality of life and functional abilities of DMD children may be enhanced by advancements in assistive technology. Clinical efficacy, feasibility, and integration into standard pediatric rehabilitation therapy require well-designed clinical trials with long-term follow-up and user-centered design techniques.
