If a boy attends a school for the physically disabled it is usually possible to arrange for these treatments to be given at school. Usually, an oral medication is also started. When the bowel is emptied the enemas can be stopped and control maintained with the oral medication. Sleeping During sleep most people toss and turn without realising that they are doing it. When weakness is moderate to severe it is not possible for boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy to turn or move about much in order to make themselves comfortable.
Parents often have to help the boys move or turn so that they can get back to sleep.
This is difficult for parents as they too need to have good sleep. Medical attendants or therapists will be able to offer advice about various mattresses that can sometimes help. As weakness increases and mobility decreases, particularly when a person is limited to a wheelchair, energy requirements are less and less food is required. Therefore it is important to monitor food intake. The problems caused by excessive weight gain cannot be over emphasised.