Most parents and caregivers will be familiar with physical therapy as a way to rebuild strength and movement after an injury. Physical therapy for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) looks a little different: instead of building strength, the primary focus is on preserving it.
A personalized physical therapy plan helps maintain muscle strength, mobility, flexibility and joint function, and will help prevent contractures and scoliosis. As a result, physical therapy plays a key part in preserving independence and quality of life in those living with DMD.
What does physical therapy involve?
Children with Duchenne should start physical therapy early, often at the time of diagnosis. The physical therapist will assesses your child by evaluating their physical state, mobility and overall health. They will then design a treatment plan to maintain mobility, flexibility and range of motion and aim to help prevent injuries.
Physical therapy can include the following:
- A personalized exercise program built around gentler movement, such as walking on a treadmill or riding an exercise bike.
- Joint movements and stretches to help flexibility and range of motion.
- Education on stretches to perform at home to stop muscles from shortening and stiffening.
- Soft tissue massage to relieve stiffness and pain.
- Various pool activities, such as breath control to support respiratory function and swimming for muscle strength.
- Practicing safer movements, such as getting out of chairs or proper gait while walking.
- Recommendations on assistive devices, such as bolsters and standing frames.
As the disease progresses, the physical therapist will need to periodically reevaluate your child and adjust their physical therapy program. The plan will adjust further as your child moves from walking to using a wheelchair full-time. No matter the program, consistency will play an important part in achieving the best outcome from physical therapy.
Learn more about DMD treatment and care
What are the benefits of physical therapy in DMD?
Alongside medication and other treatments, physical therapy can help slow the progressive weakening of muscles in DMD and maintain function for as long as possible. Stretches done during physical therapy and at home promote flexibility, preserve range of motion and avoid contractures. Learning to avoid movements that can cause injury or damage muscles means easier movement for longer. Exercising muscles helps preserve physical function, motor skills and posture, also helping to avoid the onset of scoliosis.
These physical benefits mean better health overall, from digestive and respiratory function to mood. The preservation of mobility and independence is a strong motivator for people living with DMD to stick to their physical therapy programs, with a positive impact on quality of life.
Sign up here to get the latest news, perspectives, and information about DMD sent directly to your inbox. Registration is free and only takes a minute.
