Consumer Resources
A muscular dystrophy diagnosis is life-changing for you and your loved ones. There’s a lot to consider and we hope to make the transition as easy as possible by providing helpful information. Learn more about muscular dystrophy and how Quantum® Power Wheelchairs can help.
Muscular Dystrophy: A Brief Overview
Muscular dystrophy is a condition that causes progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. There are nine types of muscular dystrophy, including congenital muscular dystrophy, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (and Becker muscular dystrophy, which is a milder version of muscular dystrophy Duchenne), and Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy. Each type is a little different, yet all are caused by genetic abnormalities.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy is by far the most common form, affecting 1 in 3,500 boys. Girls can carry the gene, but it’s exceedingly rare for girls to exhibit symptoms of this form of muscular dystrophy. The condition is caused by a malfunction in the gene that’s responsible for producing a protein called dystrophin that keeps muscles strong and healthy.
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Most children with muscular dystrophy Duchenne variety don’t begin exhibiting symptoms until near age five. As the child grows, their body’s inability to produce dystrophin in proper amounts begins causing their muscles to break down. The child begins having trouble with motor functions. Most Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients need a wheelchair by age 12. The heart and respiratory muscles may begin to weaken in the teenage years, too, which requires further treatment.
Other forms of muscular dystrophy may tend to affect more limited muscle groups or present in more minor forms. Depending on the type, they may be diagnosed in late childhood all the way to adulthood. The hallmarks for all forms include muscle weakness and difficulty with normal tasks.
Life Expectancy of Muscular Dystrophy
In the past, most boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy died in their teens when the disease began affecting their hearts and respiratory systems. Yet, recent medical advancements in heart and lung care are prolonging lives. It’s now not uncommon for men with Duchenne muscular dystrophy to live into their 20s and even early 30s. Some have lived into their 40s and 50s.
Moving Forward After a Muscular Dystrophy Diagnosis
Most who are diagnosed with muscular dystrophy will eventually need a wheelchair. Power chairs can greatly increase a person’s mobility and independence. Still, navigating the world of power chairs can be daunting. Which type is best for your child? What kind of accessories are helpful for those dealing with muscular dystrophy, and which models support those accessories? Get answers to some commonly asked questions about power chairs.
Meet a Muscular Dystrophy Advocate: Bryson Foster
Bryson Foster is a Quantum consumer advocate who is living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. He retains a great deal of freedom and independence using an Edge 3 power wheelchair with iLevel® technology. Reading his story can be helpful g to young people who have recently been diagnosed with the condition. Click to read more on Bryson’s story of living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.