Muscular dystrophy – Treatment – NHS Choices

There is currently no cure for muscular dystrophy (MD), but a variety of treatments can help manage the condition.

As different types of MD can cause quite specific problems, the treatment you receive will be tailored to your needs. As your symptoms develop, the healthcare professionals treating you should advise you about the options.

New research is investigating possible future treatments. Improved genetic testing can help if you are concerned about passing the condition on to your children.

Read more aboutgenetic testing.

As MD progresses, it weakens your muscles and you gradually begin to lose mobility and strength. These physical problems can be helped with the following:

Once the chest muscles become too weak to control breathing properly, you may require machines to assist with your breathing and coughing, especially while sleeping.

In people with Duchenne MD,corticosteroid (steroid) medication has been shown to improve muscle strength and function for six months to two years and slow down the process of muscle weakening.

Steroid medication for Duchenne MD is available in tablet orliquid form, and current research suggests a daily dose is most effective. However, long-term use of steroids is associated with significant side effects, such as weight gain and excessive hair growth.

Recent research has also shown thata creatine supplementcan help improve muscle strength in some people with MD while causing few side effects.

Creatine is a substance normally found in the body that helps supply energy to muscle and nerve cells. It is often available as a supplement from pharmacies and health food stores.

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Muscular dystrophy - Treatment - NHS Choices