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Dystrophie musculaire, physio, enfant, rééducation

Muscular dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy encompasses several genetic diseases that cause progressive muscle weakness. Depending on the type of muscular dystrophy, the first signs may appear in childhood or later in life, and the affected muscles are not always the same. Over time, this weakness can impact walking, climbing stairs, playing, transferring, endurance, and certain daily activities.

 

At PhysioUnion in Prilly, near Lausanne, we offer pediatric physiotherapy support for children with muscular dystrophy when motor, postural or functional difficulties are present.

Appointments, pediatric physiotherapy, sports physiotherapy, adolescent physiotherapy, Lausanne

What is muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophies are a group of genetic diseases in which muscles weaken over time. There are many types of muscular dystrophy, with different presentations depending on the muscles affected, the age of onset, and the severity of the condition. Some forms begin early in childhood, others later.

 

In children, certain forms such as dystrophinopathies, including Duchenne and Becker, are among the best known. The CDC indicates, for example, that Duchenne symptoms usually begin before the age of 5, while Becker often begins later.

What is muscular dystrophy?

Symptoms vary depending on the type of muscular dystrophy, but some signs may suggest neuromuscular involvement in children:

 

  • difficulties walking, running or climbing stairs;

  • frequent falls;

  • significant fatigue;

  • difficulty getting up from the ground;

  • progressive decline in motor skills;

  • joint stiffness or loss of flexibility.

 

As the disease progresses, some forms can also affect other functions, including breathing, the heart, posture, or the spine. This justifies regular medical monitoring and coordinated care.

Why can pediatric physiotherapy help?

Physical therapy is among the recommended supportive treatments for muscular dystrophy. According to the NICHD, starting physical therapy early can help keep muscles as flexible and strong as possible, particularly through a combination of adapted physical activity and stretching. The NINDS also indicates that physical therapy can help improve movement and maintain muscles as flexible and strong as possible.

 

In practice, pediatric physiotherapy primarily aims to:

 

  • preserve joint range of motion;

  • prevent or limit retractions;

  • maintain mobility and functional abilities;

  • to support physical activity in a safe manner;

  • reduce certain compensations or discomforts;

  • to support autonomy in daily activities.

What does the support cover?

Depending on the child's needs, care may include:

 

  • an assessment of walking, transfers and balance;

  • stretches and tips to maintain flexibility;

  • adapted motor exercises;

  • advice on positioning and preventing compensation;

  • support for adapted physical and sporting activities;

  • recommendations on certain technical aids or orthoses when it becomes useful.

 

Technical aids are not systematic. They can be offered gradually according to needs to improve comfort, safety, participation or autonomy.

When to request an evaluation?

A physiotherapy assessment may be relevant if your child presents with:

 

  • known or suspected muscle weakness;

  • increasing difficulties with walking or stairs;

  • a decrease in endurance;

  • stiffness or loss of mobility;

  • pain or fatigue that limits activities;

  • a need to adapt exercises, sports or daily life.

Our care at PhysioUnion in Prilly

At PhysioUnion, we offer individualized care for children with muscular dystrophy when motor or functional limitations are present. Sessions are adapted to the child's age, level of fatigue, current abilities, and specific daily goals: moving around, playing, participating in school, maintaining certain motor functions, or staying active in good health.

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