Wheelchair Vans May Be a Necessity for Muscular Dystrophy Patients

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is the most severe type of MD. It affects young boys at an early age. This medical condition is characterized by progressive weakness and muscle degeneration. By the age of 8-12 years old, these young boys are often wheelchair bound. In addition to muscle deterioration and loss of mobility, those with DMD also suffer from various complications, including postural deformities, cognitive issues, and heart and lung disease. For DMD, the average lifespan is approximately 25 years.

Limb-girdle MD usually affects both sexes in teenage years or early adulthood. The disease begins with weakening of muscles in hips and later spreads to the upper and lower limbs. Ultimately, patients with LGMD will lose the ability to walk.