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Gait and posture changes in the Duchenne muscular dystrophy child
1Rancho Los Amigos Medical Center, Downey, CA 90242.
Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research
|March 1, 1993
Summary
As children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) age, muscle weakness causes changes in gait and posture. Bracing and surgical contracture release help maintain function and body alignment in ambulatory patients.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neuromuscular Disorders
- Pediatric Care
Background:
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive genetic disorder characterized by muscle tissue destruction.
- Aging in children with DMD leads to worsening muscle weakness, affecting gait and posture.
- Maintaining ambulatory function is a key goal in managing DMD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of bracing and surgical interventions in managing ambulatory patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
- To highlight the importance of these interventions in addressing gait and posture changes associated with disease progression.
Main Methods:
- Review of current management strategies for ambulatory Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients.
- Analysis of the benefits of passive bracing for body alignment and limb stability.
- Evaluation of surgical correction of contractures as an adjunct to bracing and functional maintenance.
Main Results:
- Progressive muscle weakness in DMD significantly impacts gait and posture as children age.
- Bracing offers passive support to improve body alignment and maintain limb stability.
- Surgical correction of contractures facilitates effective bracing and supports continued function.
Conclusions:
- Bracing is essential for managing gait and posture changes in ambulatory DMD patients.
- Surgical release of contractures is a valuable adjunct, enhancing the efficacy of bracing.
- A combined approach of bracing and surgical intervention is recommended for comprehensive care of ambulatory DMD patients.