Physical Therapy for Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophies are a group of muscle diseases caused by mutations in a person’s genes. Over time, muscle weakness decreases mobility, making everyday tasks difficult.
Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy
- Frequent falls
- Difficulty rising from a lying or sitting position
- Trouble running and jumping
- Waddling gait
- Walking on the toes
- Large calf muscles
- Muscle pain and stiffness
- Learning disabilities
- Delayed growth
Causes of Muscular Dystrophy
Genetic changes cause MD, and each type is due to a different set of mutations. However, all the mutations prevent the body from producing dystrophin, a protein essential for building and repairing muscles.
Although dystrophin makes up a small percent of the total proteins in muscles, it is an essential molecule for their normal function. It glues various parts of muscle tissue together and links them to the sarcolemma, or the outer membrane.
If dystrophin is absent or deformed, this process does not work correctly. This weakens the muscles and can damage the muscle cells.
In DMD, dystrophin is almost entirely absent. Conversely, in BMD, dystrophin is smaller or in short supply.
Physical therapy is integral to maintain muscle functioning and avoid joint problems. The goals of such therapy are to help a patient stay as flexible, strong and symmetrical as possible. A physical therapist works with the patient to exercise, stretch, and maintain appropriate posture. They assist with hydro-based therapy, and continually observe a child’s spine, respiratory and musculoskeletal function. Physical therapists are also key in prescribing and monitoring adaptive seating and equipment.
At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you. Call today to schedule a consultation!
Great Neck: 475 Northern Blvd., Ste.11, Great Neck, NY 11021
Tel. (516) 829-0030
Farmingdale: 309 North West Dr., Farmingdale, NY 11735 Tel. (516) 420-2900
Woodbury: 150 Woodbury Rd., Woodbury, NY 11797 Tel. (516) 367-1111
Deer Park: 2024 Deer Park Ave., Deer Park, NY 11729 Tel. (631) 243-0247
North Shore Towers: 272-78 Grand Central Pkwy., Floral Park, NY 11005 Tel. (516) 344-0030
In-Home Physical & Occupational Therapy (Home Care): 516-829-0030
*Home therapy servicing Long Island, Queens, Staten Island, Brooklyn, the Bronx & Manhattan*
Bayside - Aquatic Therapy: 208-32 Cross Island Pkwy., Bayside, NY11360 Tel. (718) 224-8480
Oceanside: 2421 S Long Beach Rd., Oceanside, NY 11572 Tel. (516) 992-2282
New York City: 250 West 93rd Street, New York, NY 10025 Tel. (212) 580-0125
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/187618#causes
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Written by:
Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT
President
Reddy Care Physical Therapy
Reddy Care Occupational Therapy
Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy