For many people living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) assistive devices and technology for are key to improving quality of life. As the body’s muscles become weaker, orthotic devices and walking frames are replaced by manual wheelchairs then power wheelchairs. Voice or eye-activated technology can help in easing communication and helping in daily tasks such as feeding, dressing and breathing.
What is DMD?
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a rare, progressive genetic muscular disorder that primarily affects males. It is most often diagnosed between the ages of 3 and 6 years old in children who demonstrate difficulty walking, running, getting up from sitting or lying down and going up stairs. Clumsiness, frequent falls, leg pain, weakness in the facial muscles and being unable to jump are also common symptoms.
Over time, muscles weaken and degenerate, affecting the strength and mobility of the child and later impacting the heart and lungs. Curvature of the spine or scoliosis can lead to acute respiratory failure. There is no cure for DMD, with treatment focusing on symptom management to ease discomfort and improve quality of life in people living with DMD.
Learn more about DMD treatment and care
Assistive devices and technology
There are various devices and technology that can have a significant effect on boosting independence and quality of life in people living with DMD. These solutions can be regularly reassessed and upgraded according to the DMD patient’s needs and advances in technology.
Mobility assistance
In DMD, patients have trouble walking, running and jumping. Leg braces can help provide support to ankles and knees, and gait trainers are designed to keep the DMD patient mobile for longer.
Additionally, a frame to help with standing or walking will promote bone density and blood circulation. A manual wheelchair or a power wheelchair will ensure ease of movement when the muscles become too weak to walk or stand.
Communication
Voice-activated technology can be used to manage smartphones, smart TVs, video games, lights, heating or air conditioning, music, door locks and window shades, to name a few. As DMD progresses, eye-activated or sip-and-puff devices digital solutions can replace voice-activated options.
Daily tasks
Over time, people with DMD may begin to struggle with mobility in their hands and fingers. Adapted utensils facilitate independent eating.
Additionally, replacing buttons with zippers can make getting dressed easier, and adjusting doorknobs to require less gripping and turning can make a big difference to autonomy.
Your healthcare team will be able to advise you on the best options for you or your child, according to the current symptom burden and stage of the disease. They will also give you guidance on potential insurance coverage of these devices.
