Treatment and Management

While there is no cure for muscular dystrophy, various treatment options and supportive interventions can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, including:

• Physical therapy: Targeted exercises and stretching routines can help maintain muscle flexibility, strength, and range of motion, as well as prevent contractures and joint deformities.
• Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists can provide adaptive equipment, assistive devices, and strategies to help individuals with muscular dystrophy perform daily tasks and activities more independently.
• Assistive devices: Mobility aids, orthotic braces, wheelchairs, and other assistive technologies can help individuals with muscular dystrophy maintain mobility and independence.
• Respiratory support: Breathing exercises, coughing techniques, and mechanical ventilation may be necessary to manage respiratory complications associated with muscular dystrophy.
• Cardiac care: Regular cardiac evaluations, monitoring, and interventions may be needed to manage cardiac issues and prevent complications.
• Medications: Drugs such as corticosteroids, heart medications, and muscle relaxants may be prescribed to help manage symptoms and slow disease progression in some types of muscular dystrophy.
• Genetic counseling: Genetic counselors can provide information, support, and guidance to individuals and families affected by muscular dystrophy, including discussing inheritance patterns, genetic testing, and family planning options.