Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of progressive muscle diseases that cause a breakdown of skeletal muscle over time. This results in accelerated weakness of specific muscles and normally progresses to an inability to walk or perform certain motor functions.
The different types of muscular dystrophies result from mutations in genes that are involved in muscle protein production. These can be either inherited or spontaneous mutations.
There is no cure for MD and conventional therapy focuses on supportive treatment such as physical therapy, braces, and surgery. Some medications may also help to slow the progression of the disease.
Stem cell research for MD is looking at trying to increase muscle mass, functionality, and tone to improve mobility and motor function in patients.
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