What is Muscle-Disorders ?
Your muscles help you move and help your body work. Different types of muscles have different jobs. There are many problems that can affect muscles. Muscle disorders can cause weakness, pain or even paralysis. Muscular dystrophy refers a group of disorders that involve a progressive loss of muscle mass and consequent loss of strength.
Muscular dystrophy is caused by genetic mutations that interfere with the production of muscle proteins that are needed to build and maintain healthy muscles. The causes are genetic. A family history of muscular dystrophy will increase the chance of it affecting an individual.
There is currently no cure, but certain physical and medical treatments can improve symptoms and slow the progression.
Causes of muscle disorders include:
- Injury or overuse, such as sprains or strains, cramps or tendinitis.
- A genetic disorder, such as muscular dystrophy.
- Some cancers.
- Inflammation, such as myositis.
- Diseases of nerves that affect muscles.
- Infections.
Early symptoms include:
- Muscle weakness that can lead to twitching, cramps, aches and pains.
- Muscle loss.
- Movement issues.
- Balance problems.
- Numbness, tingling or painful sensations.
- Droopy eyelids.
- Double vision.
- Trouble swallowing.
Treatment:
Currently, there is no cure for muscular dystrophy. Muscle disorder treatment in Baner, Pune can be given with medications and various therapies. They help to slow the progression of the disease and keep the patient mobile for the longest possible time.
Drugs:
The two most commonly prescribed drugs for muscular dystrophy are:
- Corticosteroids:This type of medication given by Neurologist in Baner, Pune can help increase muscle strength and slow progression, but long-term use can weaken bones and increase weight gain.
- Heart medications: If the condition impacts the heart, beta blockers and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may help.
Physical therapy:
- General exercises: A range of motion and stretching exercises can help combat the inevitable inward movement of the limbs as muscles and tendons shorten. Limbs tend to become fixed in position, and these types of activities can help keep them mobile for longer.
- Breathing assistance: As the muscles used for breathing become weaker, it may be necessary to use devices to help improve oxygen delivery through the night. In the most severe cases, a patient may need to use a ventilator to breathe on their behalf.
- Mobility aids: Canes, wheelchairs, and walkers can help the person stay mobile.
- Braces: These keep muscles and tendons stretched and help slow their shortening. They also give added support to the user when moving.