Role of Therapy in BMD
- Minimise the development of contractures and deformities through a programme of stretches and, where appropriate, exercises
- Maintain muscle ability over the long term
- Anticipate and minimise any secondary physical complications
- Improve sleep quality, reduce pain and promote comfort
- Delay age at which the client becomes wheelchair reliant
- Delay age of onset of scoliosis
- Prevent surgery for tenotomies
- Reduce the likeliness of hospital admissions for chest infections
Therapists will help
- Develop individually designed exercise programmes
- Identify and prescribe aids and equipment (orthoses, callipers, wheelchairs and standing frames, for example);
- Advise on moving and handling issues thus preventing potential fractures due to inappropriate handling;
- Monitor respiratory function and advise on techniques to assist with breathing exercises and methods of clearing secretions.
- High intensity physiotherapy input may be required at times, for example, following an acute event such as a fracture, chest infection, following surgery to regain function or to prevent deterioration.
