Muscular Dystrophy – OrthoInfo – AAOS

There are nine major types of MD affecting people of all ages, from infancy to middle age or later. These forms of MD differ in terms of age of onset and muscles affected. How severe the symptoms are and how rapidly the disease progresses also varies.

The two most common types of MD that affect children are Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD).

Both DMD and BMD affect boys almost exclusively. They are sex-linked (X-linked) disorders that typically pass from a mother (who has no symptoms) to her son. Girls are rarely affected.

Both Duchenne MD and Becker MD cause weak muscles, lack of coordination, and progressive disability.

Duchenne MD begins with muscle loss in the pelvis, upper arms, and legs. The first signs and symptoms of DMD develop between ages 2 to 5 years. Symptoms include:

Many children with DMD lose their ability to walk by late childhood and require wheelchairs. As muscles continue to weaken in the back and chest, most children develop curvature of the spine (scoliosis). By adolescence, DMD usually progresses to weaken the heart and respiratory muscles.

Becker MD begins with muscle loss in the hips, pelvis, thighs and shoulders. BMD is basically a milder form of Duchenne MD. Symptoms include:

BMD progresses more slowly over the course of decades, and is a milder and less predictable disease. Some men with BMD need wheelchairs by age 30 years or later; others manage for many years with minor aids, such as a walking cane.

If you think your child may have any form of MD, see your doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and comprehensive care.

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Muscular Dystrophy - OrthoInfo - AAOS