For a parent to hear that their child has Muscular Dystrophy (MD) is a tough moment. MD involves the progressive loss of muscle and starts affecting children from an early age. Patients with Muscular Dystrophy will eventually require significant support to perform daily activities, which is why early diagnosis is so important.
This blog helps you understand muscular dystrophy stages, as well as sheds light on muscular dystrophy life expectancy, and duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Understanding Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular Dystrophy refers to a group of conditions that leads to progressive muscle weakness. It occurs due to a defect in the genes that control muscle formation. Each patient will experience the symptoms in their own way, with the first signs arising in infancy or early childhood. The cause of MD is a change in the dystrophin gene, which is responsible for making the dystrophin protein that enables muscles to contract and relax without pain. Without enough dystrophin, there is muscle damage and loss of muscle cells. MD may be hereditary or arise out of spontaneous random gene mutations.
There are nine types of muscular dystrophy, each of which has its own genetic triggers or causes, and characteristics. The most common subtype of the condition is Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).
Stages of Muscular Dystrophy
Doctors most commonly classify the progression of Muscular Dystrophy into three stages.
Early Ambulatory
Stage 1 of Muscular Dystrophy generally occurs when the child is between 2 and 5 years of age. The child may reach developmental milestones like walking or crawling later than other children, complain frequently of aching muscles, and may take a long time to get up from a seated position. Some parents may not even notice the symptoms at this stage. As the child gets closer to 9 years of age, they may develop an unsteady gait or walk on their toes. Some children may also have speech delays.
Late Ambulatory
Stage 2 of Muscular Dystrophy occurs during late childhood or early adolescence. By this stage, muscle weakness will start to affect the lower limbs and trunk, making movement difficult for the child. Apart from physical therapy regimes, they will likely require leg braces and later a wheelchair to get around. They will also have an increased tendency to fracture, owing to having weak bones. Another common symptom is scoliosis that develops due to the trunk muscles becoming weaker.
Non-Ambulatory
Stage 3 occurs during the late teens and early adulthood, which is when patients gradually lose control of their arms and legs and require motorized wheelchairs to move around. This is also when patients become susceptible to complications like cardiomyopathy, which affects blood circulation and can also cause arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat). Muscular atrophy can also affect the ribcage, which could lead to pneumonia or respiratory failure.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
This type of muscular dystrophy is caused by mutations in the DMD gene which completely stops the secretion of dystrophin, an important muscle protein.
The symptoms of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy appear in early childhood, typically between the ages of 2 and 6 years. The symptoms include:
- Enlarged calf muscles
- Joint stiffness (contractures)
- Spinal curvature (scoliosis)
- Frequent falls
- Difficulty in standing up (especially after sitting for long periods)
- Progressive muscle weakness (starting in the pelvis and legs)
Treating Muscular Dystrophy
Early detection and treatment of Muscular Dystrophy can help alleviate the symptoms. At Plexus, we recommend:
- Stretching exercises to improve range-of-motion and joint flexibility
- Low-impact exercise like walking or swimming to improve cardiovascular health and general mobility
- Mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs to get around safely
- Braces to keep the tendons and muscles stretched and reduce contractures
- Breathing assistance such as a sleep apnea device to support weak respiratory muscles
- Stem cell therapy for muscular dystrophy to support tissue remodeling, prevention of cell death, and reduction of inflammation
Life Expectancy With Muscular Dystrophy
Muscular dystrophy life expectancy is determined by the type and severity of the Muscular dystrophy condition. The severe types of MD, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy, may significantly impact life expectancy, with many individuals experiencing a shortened lifespan. On the other hand, individuals with milder forms of muscular dystrophy may have a near-normal life expectancy.
As the patient grows older, they will have to start looking into comprehensive care and making the necessary adjustments in their professional and personal lives. Since complications in the heart, bones, respiratory system, and digestive system are common, getting regular check-ups is vital.
Living with MD can be hard, but it is definitely manageable with the right treatment. It’s important for the patient to have a strong support system and to seek counseling if necessary to cope with the ups and downs. With time, practice, and patience, you can lead an active and socially fulfilling life.
If you wish to know more about our Muscular Dystrophy rehabilitation programs, reach out to Team Plexus today.
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FAQs
What is late stage muscular dystrophy?
Late-stage muscular dystrophy is characterised by significant muscle weakness, loss of mobility, respiratory cardiac and issues, as well as overall decline in function and quality of life.
How long does it take for muscular dystrophy to progress?
The progression of MD varies widely depending on the specific type of muscular dystrophy, its severity, and individual factors. Some forms of muscular dystrophy progress rapidly, leading to significant disability within a few years, while others progress more slowly over several decades.
What is the age range for muscular dystrophy?
Muscular dystrophy can affect individuals of all ages, from infancy to adulthood. Duchenne muscular dystrophy and some types of MD can present in early childhood. Others may become apparent only in later childhood, adolescence, or even adulthood.
What are 4 symptoms of muscular dystrophy?
Progressive muscle weakness, difficulty walking or standing, frequent falls, muscle stiffness or rigidity, contractures (joint stiffness), respiratory and cardiac difficulties, delayed motor milestones, and fatigue are common symptoms of MD.
What is the best treatment for muscular dystrophy?
While steroids and medication have been known to provide relief to patients with muscular dystrophy, stem cell therapy has been able to increase their lifespan, improve muscle tone, reduce inflammation, and support nerve regeneration. Stem cell therapy restores quality of life.
