| REVIEW ARTICLE |
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| Year : 2007 | Volume
: 10
| Issue : 5 | Page : 44-54 |
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Evolution of abnormal postures in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Maria Kinali1, Marion Main2, Eugenio Mercuri3, Francesco Muntoni1
1 Department of Paediatrics, Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
2 Department of Physiotherapy, Hammersmith Hospital Trust, London, United Kingdom
3 Department of Paediatrics, Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom; Department of Child Neurology, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
Correspondence Address:
Maria Kinali
Dubowitz Neuromuscular Centre, Department of Paediatrics, Division of Medicine, Imperial College, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road,London W12 ONN, United Kingdom
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
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Spinal deformities are common abnormalities of posture observed in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). Spinal alignment is the result of the integrity of different variables, ranging from normal vertebral development to balance and symmetry of tone and strength, normal control by central pathways and integrity of the sensory feedback. Any disturbance altering one or more of these variables increases the risk for developing abnormal postures. Scoliosis is a frequent complication (68-90%) of DMD. Although the risk of developing scoliosis is higher in non-ambulant DMD patients, scoliosis and kyphosis can be found occasionally in ambulant patients. In DMD patients the onset and the evolution of the abnormal postures are related to the onset and the progression of weakness. This review discusses the factors affecting posture in DMD, especially in relation to scoliosis and gives an overview of general guidelines on the diagnostic approach and some management issues related to DMD. |
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