What is Muscular Dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a genetic disorder caused by a gradual weakening and reduction of muscle mass over time. As a result, it affects daily tasks and the mobility of doing basic actions like walking, running, and climbing stairs. And it significantly affects quality of life, causing serious injuries due to reduced mobility.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Effective management and treatment of MD require an early diagnosis. Because it can help people get the necessary treatment they need. It would make it easier to get therapeutic trials, genetic counseling, and standards of care. Additionally, it gives families the ability to decide on future treatments and family planning options with knowledge.

Types Of Muscular Dystrophy

The types of muscular dystrophy are:

• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
• Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD)
• Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy (DM)
• Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD)
• Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD)

Early Symptoms of Muscular Dystrophy

General Muscle Weakness

One usual and early indication of MD is general muscle weakness. This could show up as trouble doing regular tasks including carrying things, running, walking, or climbing stairs. Usually, this insufficiency gets worse and advances over time.

Delayed Motor Development

Delayed motor milestones like sitting, crawling, or walking might be early signs of MD. Babies with MD may take longer or have difficulty reaching some milestones entirely. Parents and carers should monitor their child’s motor development and seek medical help if milestones are missed significantly.

Frequent Falling and Difficulty with Balance

MD is characterized by frequent falls and problems with balance. These issues emerge as a result of muscle weakness in the muscles responsible for stability and coordination. Children with MD may have sloppy movements, tripping or stumbling often, and struggle to maintain balance.

Progressive Muscle Wasting

Progressive muscle wasting is a condition advance, which muscles gradually lose mass and strength, leaving a visibly thinner appearance in the limbs and trunks. Over time, individuals with MD may need assistive devices like wheelchairs or braces for mobility assistance.

Trouble With Fine Motor Skills

The beginning of MD may be indicated by impaired fine motor abilities. Difficulty performing exact actions, like writing, buttoning garments, or tying shoelaces, could be a sign of muscle weakness and balance issues. As the illness worsens, these difficulties could be more apparent.

Ayurveda For Muscular Dystrophy

According to Ayurveda, MD is caused by an imbalance of the doshas, the three bio-energies that control body and mental health. The Vata dosha, which is responsible for movement and coordination, is considered to be prominent in the setting of MD. This imbalance can cause muscle weakening, atrophy, and mobility difficulties.

Conclusion

It’s critical to identify the early symptoms of complicated disorders, such as inherited conditions. By recognizing the early signs and symptoms, individuals and healthcare professionals can collaboratively work together to navigate the complexities of this condition. It is important to get genetic testing for diagnosis and to confirm the types of MD. 

Ayurveda aims at treating the cause of the disease rather than the symptoms by providing safe and supportive Ayurvedic treatment and therapies for MD and improving your quality of life.