Muscle fibers may be replaced by fat and connective tissue in the later stages of the disease. Certain MDs, such as Duchenne dystrophy, may ultimately be fatal, while others have muscle weakness that causes the person little disability. Diagnosis After thorough physical and neurological examinations, other testing may be required. In some cases, other problems may be ruled out. Controlling the symptoms and maximizing the quality of life are the goals of treatment.
Steroids can sometimes help slow the progression of the disorders.
Activity is encouraged, depending on the patient. Physical therapy can help with muscle strength and functioning, as can orthopedic appliances like braces and wheelchairs. Muscular dystrophy gradually worsens and can eventually cause mental impairment. Since then scientists have been working to identify the genes and the proteins that cause other muscular dystrophies. Studies are working to figure out ways to insert new genes or to compensate for the gene defect.