Duchenne Care

As your child or young person proceeds along their journey with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), they will benefit from you, their parents and carers, really understanding as much as possible about the disease and how the different treatment options can slow progression and maximise the positive effects of treatment. Specialised care and management as early as possible can help people with DMD to retain their mobility and independence for longer than they would without it.¹

Although there is no cure for DMD, there are several types of medications that help to protect the muscles and treat symptoms.^1–3 These include medicines that reduce inflammation or help muscle cells produce dystrophin, heart and bone medications and vaccines against chest infections.^1–3 This section includes information on the roles these different options occupy.

As well as medicines, you can learn about the different treatment approaches available from specialists and how they work together to provide a multidisciplinary approach.^1,2 Many of these specialists provide what is known as supportive care, which, together with the medicines, plays a major role in the care of people with DMD.^1,2 You will find information here on muscle health, diet, bone and heart health, support for breathing problems and learning support. There is also a selection of example videos, which may be useful if your child or young person has been prescribed stretches by your physiotherapist or other healthcare professional.