Muscular Dystrophy (MD) refers to a group of inherited muscle disorders that cause progressive weakness and degeneration of skeletal muscles—the muscles we use for movement. Over time, individuals with MD experience increasing difficulty in walking, lifting, breathing, and performing daily activities.
There are many types of MD, and each affects different muscles and progresses at different rates. While there is no cure yet, early diagnosis and a structured neurorehabilitation plan can dramatically improve function, mobility, and quality of life.
MD is caused by genetic mutations that prevent the body from producing proteins necessary for healthy muscle growth and repair—most commonly dystrophin.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
Most common and severe form
Affects young boys (symptoms appear between ages 2–5)
Rapid progression, with wheelchair use often by early teens
Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD)
Less severe than DMD
Symptoms appear later, typically in teens or early adulthood
Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD)
Affects hip and shoulder muscles
Occurs in both sexes, can start in childhood or adulthood
Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD)
Affects facial, shoulder, and upper arm muscles
Symptoms usually start in teenage years
Myotonic Dystrophy
Affects both muscles and other body systems (heart, eyes, hormones)
Symptoms include muscle wasting and delayed relaxation after contraction
Congenital Muscular Dystrophy
Symptoms present at birth or early infancy
Varies in severity
Symptoms vary depending on the type of MD but may include:
Progressive muscle weakness
Trouble walking, frequent falls
Difficulty climbing stairs or lifting objects
Waddling gait
Enlarged calves (pseudohypertrophy)
Fatigue
Difficulty breathing in later stages
Speech or swallowing problems (in some types)
Cardiac or respiratory involvement (especially in DMD and Myotonic Dystrophy)
As the condition progresses, patients may need mobility aids, respiratory support, or feeding assistance. However, comprehensive care can slow deterioration and promote independence.
Diagnosis includes:
Physical exam and medical history
Creatine kinase (CK) blood test – elevated levels indicate muscle damage
Genetic testing – to identify the specific mutation
Electromyography (EMG) – measures muscle activity
Muscle biopsy – checks muscle tissue under a microscope
Cardiac evaluation – ECG and echocardiogram for heart health
Pulmonary function tests
Early diagnosis allows for earlier intervention and better outcomes.
Muscular Dystrophy is a progressive condition, but rehabilitation doesn’t stop the disease—it slows its impact and extends function. Neurorehabilitation focuses on:
Preserving mobility and strength
Preventing joint deformities and contractures
Supporting heart and lung function
Managing fatigue and pain
Enhancing independence in daily life
Our team of experts—neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, psychologists, and dietitians—work together to build a comprehensive care plan that evolves with the patient.
Our MD-focused physical therapy helps with:
Maintaining joint range of motion
Improving posture and balance
Preventing scoliosis and contractures
Delaying the need for mobility aids
Encouraging low-impact exercise (swimming, cycling)
Therapists also teach respiratory exercises to maintain lung capacity and manage shallow breathing.
Occupational therapists assist with:
Adapting daily tasks (bathing, dressing, eating)
Recommending supportive devices (e.g., hand splints, wheelchair modifications)
Improving upper limb function
Ensuring safety at home, school, or work
The goal is to maintain independence for as long as possible.
In some types of MD (like Myotonic or Congenital), patients may experience:
Slurred speech
Difficulty swallowing
Risk of aspiration or choking
Our speech-language pathologists provide:
Articulation and breathing exercises
Safe swallowing techniques
Communication tools or devices (if needed)
As respiratory muscles weaken, breathing becomes difficult. We offer:
Chest physiotherapy and breathing techniques
Non-invasive ventilation support (e.g., BiPAP machines)
Cough-assist devices
Pulmonary hygiene education for caregivers
Early intervention in lung care can delay the need for invasive support.
Chronic illness affects emotional well-being. Our psychologists offer:
Counseling for anxiety, depression, and self-esteem
Family therapy to manage caregiving stress
Social skills training for children and teens
Peer support group access
We believe mental health is just as important as physical health.
Nutrition impacts strength, immunity, and overall function. Our dietitians help with:
Balanced, protein-rich diets
Feeding techniques for patients with swallowing difficulty
Weight management (obesity can worsen symptoms)
Supplements like Vitamin D and calcium for bone health
We provide guidance on:
Walkers, scooters, or customized wheelchairs
Braces to support limbs and joints
Adaptive tools for feeding, writing, or dressing
Smart home modifications
Children and young adults with MD may need academic accommodations. We assist with:
Coordination with schools
Individualized education plans (IEPs)
Assistive learning technologies
Career counseling and workplace adaptation advice
✅ Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Team
✅ Customized Therapy Plans Based on Type and Stage
✅ Latest Equipment & Evidence-Based Protocols
✅ Pediatric and Adult MD Specialists
✅ Emphasis on Long-Term Quality of Life and Independence
Start as soon as the diagnosis is confirmed, even if symptoms are mild. Early therapy can delay complications like:
Contractures
Joint deformities
Respiratory decline
Loss of mobility
Even in later stages, rehab can improve comfort and independence.