Treatment Options For Muscular Dystrophy

Wearing Braces

One thing that might help patients with muscular dystrophy is wearing braces. Braces are a type of assistive device, but they're different from typical mobility aids. Unlike other mobility aids, braces confer health benefits including a slowed progression of the disease. The goal of the braces is to keep the tendons and muscles flexible and stretched, rather than letting them curl inward and lose their range of movement. At the same time, the braces support the muscles that have become weakened, which can improve muscle function and overall mobility. When wearing braces, an individual may find they're able to walk or stand for longer than they could unassisted. The braces might be paired with a cane or walker. Many different kinds of braces can help with different kinds of muscular dystrophy. Some are worn during the day, while others are worn while the patient sleeps, and some braces can even be worn around the clock. In addition to leg braces, arm braces are also available.

Learn more about managing muscular dystrophy now.