Physiotherapy for Muscular Dystrophy

A person with muscular dystrophy will benefit from neurological physiotherapy. 

Physiotherapy treatment will help make activities easier to achieve by reducing pain and improving joint flexibility and muscle strength. Physiotherapy treatment will also promote independence and maximise your potential. Physiotherapy treatment will be centred around:

• Stretching to reduce muscle tension and joint stiffness.
• Exercises to increase muscle strength and energy levels. This will also increase self-esteem and confidence with daily tasks.
• Passive and active movement of joints to improve flexibility and circulation.
• Postural advice to increase comfort and prevent pressure sores when lying and sitting
• Activities to improve balance and coordination
• Promote functional activities important to you
• Regular standing if necessary.
• Advice on mechanical support such as wheelchairs walking aids and orthotic devices in order to maintain functional ability.
• Hydrotherapy and massage to relax sore muscles.
• Breathing control and assisted coughing if appropriate to maintain a clear chest.

A specialist neurological physiotherapist will carry out a detailed assessment to see how muscular dystrophy affects you. Physiotherapy treatment will help reduce the impact muscular dystrophy has on your life by keeping you as active as possible. Treatment goals will be developed and will incorporate those close you. Physiotherapy treatment will maximise your potential by developing a progressive programme, suited to your needs.