Best Muscular Dystrophy Doctors in Lucknow

Muscular dystrophy comprises a group of inherited genetic disorders that lead to progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. This condition is caused by mutations in the genes responsible for healthy muscle structure and function. These mutations, inherited from one or both parents, affect crucial proteins like dystrophin, necessary for maintaining healthy muscle fibres. In some cases, these genetic alterations may occur spontaneously without any known family history. Different types of muscular dystrophy affect specific muscle groups and have varying rates of progression.

Lucknow, a city steeped in culture and tradition, has witnessed a rise in medical conditions, one of which is muscular dystrophy. Thankfully, the city houses many adept muscular dystrophy specialists who are committed to providing comprehensive care to patients. Dealing with muscular dystrophy requires patience, persistence, and the right medical guidance. Apollo Hospitals Lucknow has a team of doctors for muscular dystrophy disease treatment who strive to offer the best possible treatment for those living with this condition.

Types/Stages of Muscular Dystrophy

The different forms of muscular dystrophy include the following:

• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: This is the most common and severe form, primarily affecting young boys between the ages of 2–5 years.

• Becker Muscular Dystrophy: This form is similar to DMD but less severe and slower in progression. Symptoms appear in adolescence or early adulthood.

• Congenital Muscular Dystrophy: In this form, muscle weakness and joint deformities are present from birth, characterised by slow disease progression.

• Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy: This variant is characterised by initial weakness in shoulder and hip muscles, progressing to other muscle groups.

• Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy: In this type, weakness commences in the face, shoulder, and upper arm muscles.

• Myotonic Dystrophy: This type involves muscle stiffness and weakness and impacts the heart, eyes, and other organs.

Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy

Symptoms of muscular dystrophy can vary with the type and severity of the condition:

• Progressive muscle weakness that worsens over time

• Delayed motor skill development in children

• Difficulty in physical activities like walking, running, and jumping

• Frequent falls

• Muscle pain, stiffness, and loss of muscle bulk

• Walking on toes with a waddling gait

Tests to Diagnose Muscular Dystrophy

Doctors for muscular dystrophy at Apollo Hospitals diagnose the disease using the following methods:

• Blood Tests: To test for elevated creatine kinase, aldolase, and myoglobin levels, which can indicate muscle damage.

• Genetic Testing: Helps identify mutations in the genes responsible for different types of muscular dystrophy.

• Muscle Biopsy: A small sample of muscle tissue is removed and examined under a microscope for signs of dystrophic changes.

• Creatine Kinase (CK) Blood Test: Elevated levels of CK, an enzyme that leaks out of damaged muscles, can indicate muscle disease.

• Electromyography (EMG): This test measures the electrical activity of muscles at rest and during contraction. It helps differentiate muscle conditions from nerve disorders.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) and Echocardiogram: These heart tests assess the heart’s electrical activity and structure since muscular dystrophy can affect cardiac muscles.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of muscles, helping to assess the extent of muscle damage and disease progression.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Muscular Dystrophy at Apollo Hospitals Lucknow

Best doctors for muscular dystrophy at Apollo Hospitals Lucknow offers a broad spectrum of treatment options for muscular dystrophy:

• Drug Therapy: Glucocorticoids like prednisone and deflazacort help delay muscle degeneration and slow disease progression.

• Physical and Supportive Therapy: Includes physical therapy and occupational therapy that help maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility.

• Surgical Options: These include tendon/muscle release surgery to address contractures and spinal stabilisation surgery to treat scoliosis associated with muscular dystrophy.

• Respiratory Therapy: This includes the use of ventilators or other breathing assistance devices to support weakened respiratory muscles and improve lung function.

• Assistive Devices: Braces, orthotics, wheelchairs, and other mobility aids help support weakened muscles and maintain independence as muscle weakness progresses.