Children affected by DM1 do make good progress with their motor skills and community-based physiotherapy should promote function and play to assist in development.

Because of difficulties in protecting their airway avoid prone positioning in the weakest children even beyond two years of age. However, it may be introduced as they gain strength and respiratory function.

Management also consists of supportive seating, standing equipment, stretches to maintain an improved range of motion, and orthotics are frequently used. Hydrotherapy can be useful.