Muscular Dystrophy

What is muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is a broad name for a group of diseases that cause muscle weakness. The muscle weakness gets worse over time and can eventually affect the child’s ability to walk. Children with muscular dystrophy may also have scoliosis (a curve in the spine) and heart or breathing problems.

There are more than 30 different types of muscular dystrophy, with symptoms that can range from mild to severe. The two most common types are Duchenne and Becker. Becker muscular dystrophy is similar to Duchenne, but it develops more slowly and is less severe. Both types are far more common in boys than in girls.

What are the signs and symptoms of muscular dystrophy?

The symptoms of muscular dystrophy can vary depending on the type. Children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy usually start showing signs of the condition between ages 2 and 5. Children with Becker muscular dystrophy may not show signs until they are in their teens.

Symptoms may include:

• Falling often
• Clumsy movements
• Trouble walking up stairs
• Walking on toes
• Large calf muscles

What causes muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is caused by a mutation on a gene that affects muscles in the body. Different types of muscular dystrophy are caused by different gene mutations. The gene mutation is usually inherited from a parent, but in some cases it can happen randomly.

How is muscular dystrophy treated?

There is no cure for muscular dystrophy, but treatments can help ease symptoms and keep your child as active as possible. Your care team at Arkansas Children’s is experienced in treating all types of muscular dystrophy and will work with you to create the best treatment plan for your child.

Treatments may include:

• Physical therapy to help maintain muscle strength
• Respiratory therapy for breathing problems
• Medicines to help with symptoms such as muscle spasms
• Surgery for scoliosis