Best Doctors for Muscular Dystrophy in Mysore

Types/Stages of Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy encompasses several distinct forms, each with unique characteristics:

• Duchenne muscular dystrophy: This type predominantly affects boys and exhibits a rapid progression, with symptoms manifesting between ages 2-5.

• Becker muscular dystrophy: This is similar to Duchenne, but milder in progression. It appears later, in the teens or early adulthood.

• Myotonic muscular dystrophy: Most commonly seen in adults, this type leads to muscle stiffness, especially in the hands, face, and neck.

• Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy: This form starts with weakness in the muscles around the hips and shoulders, affecting both males and females.

Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy

The symptoms observed by specialists in muscular dystrophy vary based on the type of the disorder:

• Progressive muscle weakness

• Frequent falls or difficulty running or jumping

• Enlarged calf muscles known as pseudohypertrophy

• Severe cases may exhibit breathing and heart problems

• Muscle cramps or stiffness

Tests to Diagnose Muscular Dystrophy

For diagnosis at Apollo Hospitals, the following tests are performed by the best doctors treating muscular dystrophy:

• Physical exam: This involves assessing muscle strength, and reflexes to identify signs of muscle weakness and wasting.

• Genetic testing: This test helps identify specific genetic mutations responsible for muscular dystrophy, providing a definitive diagnosis.

• Blood tests: These measure creatine kinase levels, which are typically elevated in individuals with muscle damage.

• Electromyography: This test analyses the electrical activity in muscles to detect abnormalities in muscle function and differentiate between muscle and nerve disorders.

• Muscle biopsy: A small sample of muscle tissue is examined under a microscope to observe structural abnormalities and confirm the diagnosis of muscular dystrophy.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Muscular Dystrophy at Apollo Hospitals in Mysore:

The best doctors for muscular dystrophy treatment at Apollo Hospitals in Mysore offer treatments to manage symptoms and complications:

• Physical and Occupational therapy: Physical therapy focuses on exercises and techniques to keep muscles active and prevent contractures, while occupational therapy helps patients adapt to daily activities and maintain independence.

• Assistive devices: These include braces (support weakened muscles and joints), wheelchairs (manual and powered for severe muscle weakness), and canes/walkers (assist with balance and movement).

• Medications: Various drugs are used by doctors for muscular dystrophy to treat the heart ( beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors) and respiratory (bronchodilators, mucolytics) issues associated with this condition.

• Corticosteroids: These medications, like prednisone and deflazacort, can help slow muscle deterioration and improve muscle strength in certain types of muscular dystrophy.

• Surgical Interventions: Scoliosis surgery (spinal fusion) manages severe spinal curvature, improving posture and comfort. Tendon release surgery improves joint flexibility and function in cases of joint contractures.