Can be treated with surgical insertion of a shunt that diverts fluid into bloodstream. Diagnosed between 2 and 5, slow degeneration. Child appears normal at birth between ages of 2 and 5 child begin experience difficulty in running or climbing stairs. Child may walk with unusual gait, showing a protruding stomach and hollow back. May have difficulty getting to their feet after laying down or playing on the floor, may fall easily.
Treatments focus is on maintaining function of unaffected muscles for as long as possible.
Early use of electrically powered wheelchairs, special braces and other devices to prolong walking as long as possible, facilitating ambulation, helping the child and family coping with limitations of disease, and providing emotional support and counseling to the child and family. Independence can be maintained by regular physical therapy, exercise, and the use of appropriate aids and appliances. There is a brief loss of consciousness lasting from a few seconds to half a minute. Let the seizure run its course. Ease child to floor, loosen clothing.