Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Also known as: DMD.

What is Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is a genetic condition characterized by progressive muscle weakness, difficulties with movement and other symptoms. Duchenne muscular dystrophy is known for getting worse much more.

What causes Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

A genetic defect causes the body not to produce as much dystophin as it should. Dystrophin is a protein that helps strengthen muscles. However, it’s unclear why this defect occurs. It does not appear to run in families.

What are the symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy?

Progressive muscle weakness is the primary symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This included problems with movement, falls and trouble getting up from sitting or lying down. Fatigue, learning problems and intellectual disability are other problems related to Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

What are Duchenne muscular dystrophy care options?

Certain drugs such as steroids can slow the loss of muscle strength. Exercises and physical therapy can help those with Duchenne muscular dystrophy live the best life possible.

Reviewed by: Trevor J Resnick, MD

This page was last updated on: 3/23/2026 4:24:32 PM

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Related Press Releases

Nicklaus Children's Expands Offering of Approved Gene Therapy for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Following FDA Decision

September 18, 2024 –

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital is offering FDA-approved Elevidys (delandistrogene moxeparvovec-rokl), the first gene therapy developed for patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) who have a confirmed mutation in the DMD gene. 

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Spasticity and Movement Disorders Spasticity is one form of movement disorder, that presents as increased tone or stiffness of the muscles that causes an inability to produce and control bodily movements.
Movement Disorders

Please see spasticity and movement disorders for further information.

Muscular Dystrophy (MD) Muscular dystrophy describes a broad group of many, chronic, progressive illnesses that cause the muscles of the body to become increasingly weak and less flexible over time.
Gene Therapy for DMD and SMA Gene therapy offers the opportunity to treat a wide range of chronic and severe inherited diseases that previously had few to no treatment options.
Physical Therapy (PT) Evaluation and Treatment Physical therapy is a form of therapy that helps people rehabilitate through exercises, stretching and orthopedics in order to regain the mobility and function of their bodies.
Steroid Injections Steroid injections are a treatment that can be used to reduce pain and improve mobility. Steroids are injected directly into an area of the body in order to reduce pain and swelling.