The limb girdle group of muscular dystrophies cause general weakness around the shoulder and pelvic girdle. Usually, weakness is noticed first in the legs before the arms and the facial muscles are not normally affected.

Diagnosis of the different subtypes of limb girdle muscular dystrophy are now available from specialist diagnostic centres. The different types of limb girdle muscular dystrophy have important and different features associated with them which includes cardiac and respiratory issues. The weakness around the pelvic and shoulder girdle can result in falls, difficulty running and /or climbing stairs. As the condition progresses people may have difficulty walking and may need a wheelchair and if the muscles around the shoulder girdle are more affected this can impact arm function.