Best Doctors for Muscular Dystrophy in Mumbai

Types/Stages of Muscular Dystrophy

Doctors treating muscular dystrophy note that this is not a single disorder but an umbrella term that encompasses various types, including:

• Duchenne muscular dystrophy: This is the most frequently diagnosed form in childhood, primarily affecting boys, with rapidly progressing muscle weakness and severe disability by adolescence.

• Becker muscular dystrophy: It has similar characteristics to Duchenne but tends to be milder with slower progression allowing patients to maintain mobility longer.

• Myotonic dystrophy: Commonly seen in adults, it often results in muscle stiffness, progressive weakness, and multi-system involvement, including heart and eye problems.

• Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy: This type affects both males and females and initially manifests as weakness in the shoulder and hip muscles.

• Congenital Muscular Dystrophy (CMD): Present from birth or early childhood, CMD includes various subtypes that cause muscle weakness and joint deformities, impacting motor development.

Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy

Specialists in muscular dystrophy observe a range of symptoms. These can include:

• Gradual muscle weakness and wasting

• Difficulty with mobility, including frequent falls and challenges in running or jumping

• Pseudohypertrophy or enlarged calf muscles

• Joint contractures and limited range of motion

• In severe cases, breathing difficulties and heart problems may develop

Tests to Diagnose Muscular Dystrophy

At Apollo Hospitals in Mumbai, the diagnosis by the best doctors treating muscular dystrophy typically involves:

• A physical examination: This includes assessing muscle strength, reflexes, and signs of muscle wasting. Doctors also observe specific patterns of weakness and muscle function.

• Genetic testing: This is conducted to identify the specific genetic mutations responsible for different types of muscular dystrophy.

• Blood tests: This specifically measures levels of creatine kinase, an enzyme released into the blood when muscle fibres are damaged.

• Electromyography: This test evaluates the electrical activity produced by skeletal muscles to detect abnormal muscle function and nerve damage.

• Muscle biopsy: A small sample of muscle tissue, usually from the thigh or upper arm is examined under a microscope, confirming the presence of muscle degeneration.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Muscular Dystrophy at Apollo Hospitals in Mumbai

At Apollo Hospitals, the best doctors specialising in muscular dystrophy treatment provide a range of treatment options to manage symptoms and improve quality of life, including:

• Physical and occupational therapy: These therapies are essential for maintaining muscle strength, improving range of motion, and supporting daily activities.

• Assistive devices: Tools such as braces, canes, and wheelchairs are tailored to individual needs to optimise mobility and independence.

• Medications: Prescribed drugs can help manage heart and respiratory problems associated with some types of muscular dystrophy.

• Corticosteroids: These drugs may be prescribed to slow the progression of muscle wasting in some patients.

• Surgical interventions: Procedures such as spinal surgery can help manage complications like scoliosis (curvature of the spine) or joint contractures, improving comfort and mobility.