Best Muscular Dystrophy Doctors in Indore

Muscular dystrophy refers to a group of genetic diseases causing progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. These are caused by mutations in genes responsible for the structure and functioning of muscles. These mutations disrupt the production of proteins essential for healthy muscle functionality, leading to muscle degeneration and weakness over time. The disease primarily affects voluntary muscles, resulting in difficulty in movement, walking, and coordination. Though different forms of muscular dystrophy affect different sets of muscles and have distinct progression patterns, they all involve the gradual weakening of muscles.

Located in the heartland of India, Indore is known for its vibrant bazaars and rich history. The residents of this city seek guidance and treatment for various diseases and conditions, one being muscular dystrophy. Fortunately, Apollo Hospitals Indore houses some of the best muscular dystrophy specialists and neurologists who adopt a comprehensive diagnostic approach, which is essential for accurately identifying the specific type of muscular dystrophy and developing an appropriate treatment plan.

Types/Stages of Muscular Dystrophy

Some types of muscular dystrophy include:

• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A severe form that mainly affects boys in early childhood, leading to progressive muscle weakness and difficulty in walking.

• Myotonic Dystrophy: This type is characterised by prolonged muscle contractions causing muscle stiffness and weakness. It also affects the heart, eyes, and endocrine system.

• Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy: This form primarily affects the muscles of the face, shoulders, and upper arms, characterised by difficulty raising the arms, facial weakness, and asymmetrical muscle weakness.

• Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy: This form results in weakness and wasting of shoulder and hip muscles.

• Emery-Dreifuss Muscular Dystrophy: This causes muscle weakness, joint stiffness, and heart problems.

Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy

Patients experiencing the following various symptoms should consider consulting doctors for muscular dystrophy disease treatment:

• Progressive muscle weakness that gradually worsens over time

• Delayed motor skill development in children

• Difficulty walking, running, and jumping

• Regular falls and difficulty getting up from a lying or sitting position

• Muscle pain, stiffness, and loss of muscle bulk

Tests to Diagnose Muscular Dystrophy

Doctors for muscular dystrophy at Apollo Hospitals diagnose the disease through an array of tests:

• Physical Examination: To assess muscle strength, reflexes, and coordination.

• Genetic Testing: To help identify specific gene mutations causing the disease.

• Muscle Biopsy: This involves examining a small sample of muscle tissue under a microscope.

• Electromyography: Assesses electrical activity in muscles.

• Imaging Studies: MRI or ultrasound to evaluate muscle health and identify characteristic changes associated with muscular dystrophy.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Muscular Dystrophy at Apollo Hospitals Indore

At Apollo Hospitals Indore, the best doctors for muscular dystrophy offer the following treatment strategies that focus on managing symptoms and maintaining mobility:

• Physical Therapy: This helps maintain muscle strength and flexibility, manage contractures, and improve overall mobility.

• Occupational Therapy: Aims to enhance independence in daily activities and improve functionality.

• Assistive Devices: Devices such as braces, wheelchairs, and mobility aids can help individuals maintain independence and mobility.

• Medications: Drugs like corticosteroids, glucocorticoids, and or pain relievers, may be prescribed to alleviate pain, delay muscle degeneration, and slow disease progression.