What does a 10-meter walk test indicate for children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

The 10-meter walk test is a functional assessment specifically designed to evaluate ambulation capabilities in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). This condition is characterized by progressive muscle degeneration, which affects mobility over time. The results of the 10-meter walk test provide critical information regarding the child's walking speed and endurance, which can be indicative of the potential loss of ambulation in the future.

By assessing how quickly and effectively a child can walk a set distance, healthcare professionals can track the progression of muscle function. A significant decline in performance on this test may suggest an impending loss of ambulation, allowing for timely interventions, adaptations, and planning. Consequently, the score from this test is particularly relevant in predicting the timeframe over which a child might lose their ability to walk independently.