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Myotonic Dystrophy
Myotonic Dystrophy is an inherited condition that causes muscle weakness. It can affect any part of the body and can lead to muscle pain and stiffness, and reduced mobility. At Liverpool Neuro Physio we can help to manage these symptoms and promote strength and stamina to help you maintain your independence.
- What is Myotonic Dystrophy?
- Effects of Myotonic Dystrophy
- Physiotherapy treatment for Myotonic Dystrophy
- Benefits of physiotherapy treatment for Myotonic Dystrophy
What is Myotonic Dystrophy?
Myotonic Dystrophy is otherwise known as Dystrophia Myotonica or abbreviated to DM. Myotonic Dystrophy is an inherited condition and the most common form of muscular dystrophy in adults, although children can also have the condition.
Myotonic Dystrophy causes muscle weakness that slowly progresses and can affect any muscle in the body including organs such as the heart. Two types of Myotonic Dystrophy (DM) have been identified:
- DM1, also known as Steinert Disease.
- DM2, also known as Proximal Myotonic Myopathy, or PROMM. This is a rarer form compared to DM1 and it can have milder symptoms.
Effects of Myotonic Dystrophy
Myotonic Dystrophy is a very variable condition in terms of presentation, and can occur at any age and in any range of severity. Muscle weakness usually begins in the hands and feet, or around the face and neck, but can go on to affect organs such as the heart. Myotonic Dystrophy can also cause stiffness or pain in the joints, and a general feeling of fatigue.
People with this condition may struggle with:
- Walking or climbing stairs
- Gripping and releasing objects
- Loss of stamina
- Difficulty speaking or making facial expressions
In your first appointment with Liverpool Neuro Physio, a specialist neurological physiotherapist would perform a full assessment to determine which muscle groups are most affected in order to plan the best treatment program for your individual needs.
Physiotherapy treatment for Myotonic Dystrophy
Currently there is no cure for Myotonic Dystrophy, but at Liverpool Neuro Physio we recognise the importance of managing the symptoms of the condition and aiming to maintain or prolong muscle strength in order to maximise your potential and minimise loss of mobility or function.
Specialised physiotherapists can prescribe cardiovascular and strength training at the appropriate level for you in order to boost stamina and muscle strength. If mobility is becoming a problem your physiotherapist can also assess for mobility aids or orthotics that can help promote independence and minimise the risk of falls. We also work closely with Occupational Therapists who can provide adaptive equipment for problems relating to muscle weakness in the hand.
Benefits of physiotherapy treatment for Myotonic Dystrophy
At Liverpool Neuro Physio we understand that reduced mobility can lead to unnecessary muscle weakness, which further reduces mobility and forms a vicious circle. By assessing for the main problem areas caused by Myotonic Dystrophy, your specialist neurological physiotherapist will create an exercise program designed to target muscle groups that are most important for your mobility and functional independence.
To arrange an appointment or to speak to one of our specialists, call us on 0151 558 0188 or email office@liverpoolneurophysio.co.uk.