Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

What are the treatments for the disease?

The major goal of early treatment is to keep the ability to walk as long as possible. Stretching exercises and using braces at night help avoid the tightening of tendons.

Surgery can be used to release tight tendons. Walking and body movement should be resumed immediately after surgery if possible. Inactivity makes the disease worse and can lead to rapid deterioration of lung function.

Prednisone has been shown to slow the progression of the disease for up to three years.

How is the disease monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.