Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of hereditary muscular disorders, characterized by progressive weakness and wasting of various groups of muscles. There are several types, which affect different groups of muscles and arise at different ages. The three major types are listed below.
Duchenne
In this case, the first signs usually appear before the age of three and in most cases the muscles appear bulkier than normal. The bulk of actual muscle tissue is not, however, increased and there is progressive weakening. This initially affects the buttocks and leg muscles, causing a characteristic waddle in walking. The weakness causes the child to get up from lying in a typical way - by rolling on his face and using the arms to push himself. Unfortunately, nothing can stop the progress of the disease, which is usually fatal by the teenage years. It affects boys, because the gene that carries the disease is linked to the male X chromosome.
Limb Girdle
This form of muscular dystrophy affects the shoulders, pelvic, and uppermost limb muscles, has a recessive inheritance, and affects both sexes. It usually causes severe disablement within 20 years of onset.
Facio - Scapulo - Humeral
This type of muscular dystrophy affects the muscles of the face, upper back, and upper arm and is caused by a dominant gene. It progresses very slowly and does not necessarily shorten life. It can occur at any age and may affect several children in one family.
Treatment
Massage Relaxing and full-body massage will stimulate the muscles.
Hydrotherapy Swimming and exercise in water encourages mobility and builds up strength without excess strain on the muscles themselves.
Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for natural remedies:
Osteopathy Treatment will be aimed at improving musculoskeletal function.
The Trager Approach The treatment may improve general health, enhance self-image and increase mobility.
