What aspect of physical therapy is essential to prolong standing and ambulation in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

In children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), maintaining mobility and functional abilities like standing and ambulation is critical. Stretching exercises play a vital role in this regard. DMD causes progressive muscle weakness and tightness due to the degeneration of muscle fibers and subsequent loss of elasticity. As the condition progresses, muscle contractures can develop, leading to an increased risk of joint stiffness and loss of range of motion.

Incorporating stretching exercises into a physical therapy program helps to maintain flexibility, prevent contractures, and optimize joint function. This is essential for prolonging the ability to stand and walk, as it allows the child to maintain their functional mobility for a longer period. By keeping muscles and joints flexible, children with DMD can better perform daily activities and enhance their quality of life.

While strength training and cardiovascular exercise can provide benefits in specific contexts, stretching exercises specifically address the prevention of muscle tightness and contractures, making them particularly crucial for children with this condition. Joint immobilization is counterproductive, as it can lead to further stiffness and loss of mobility, which is contrary to the goal of sustaining ambulation and standing.