Along with drug therapy and surgical procedures, physical therapy is considered a treatment for some types of muscular dystrophy. Some of these are Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Becker Muscular Dystrophy. Physical therapy is engaged in improving the flexibility and strength of the muscles and joints for the sole purpose of instilling patient independence and mobility. There are different kinds of physical therapy that patients get involved in. And if you are caring for a family member or friend with muscular dystrophy, consider the following tips.
- Have the patient wear braces. The braces improve the response of the patient to physical therapy. Braces are worn to make the joints flexible and prevent contractures. With properly fitted braces and continuous therapy with a licensed physical therapist, the patient can learn to move on his own.
- Commit the patient to hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy, also called aquatic therapy, is done in combination with physical therapy. It works to loosen and tone the stiff muscles. The most common forms of hydrotherapy are hot baths and swimming. In swimming specifically, the patient is taught to swim and care for himself in the water.
- Focus on stretching. Regular stretching helps in slowing down the deterioration of the weakened muscles and strengthening the non-affected muscles. This kind of approach will eventually improve the mobility of the patient. Stretching does not have to be all rigorous. It has to be done with caution so as not to complicate the condition of the affected muscles. There are different kinds of stretching programs. The physical therapist will design one according to the ability of the patient. If needed, the patient should wear braces to improve his response.
- Understand that physical therapy does not only address the muscular condition of the patient. Physical therapy is a multi-dimensional approach in that it benefits not only the physical status of the patient but his overall well-being as well. Along with the improvement of his locomotive skills, his confidence and emotional condition likewise improve primarily because of his increasing independence. This is especially true among young patients who learn to walk, run, and jump in the later years of their childhood life.
- Work with a qualified physical therapist. It is highly important to work with a qualified and competent physical therapist that will design the activities and exercises based on the current abilities of the patient. He has to be particularly familiar with the condition of the patient and have the ability to foresee any treatment glitches that will come along the way. The physical therapist must be persistent and encouraging but never pushy that he forces the patient to do activities beyond his capabilities.
It is very important to note that the patient will find the physical therapy too difficult to perform. In this case, you need to offer your assistance and ask how you can help. If he resists your help, subtly guide him, so he doesn’t hurt or injure himself. After a few sessions, you can see improvement in his mobility.
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