Treatment of DMD in Yuncheng

The cause is a mutation in the DMD gene on the X chromosome, which codes for dystrophin, a protein that strengthens the muscle fibre membrane. Without dystrophin, muscle fibres gradually break down and are replaced by connective and fatty tissue. About a third of cases arise from a new mutation; the rest are inherited from a carrier mother. Because the gene sits on the X chromosome, the condition affects almost exclusively boys.

The first signs usually appear at age 3–5: the child falls more often, struggles to run and climb stairs, and gets up from the floor by 'climbing' up their own legs with their hands (Gower's sign). Typical features include enlarged calf muscles from fatty-tissue replacement (pseudohypertrophy), a waddling gait, and progressive weakness of the hip and shoulder girdle muscles. Over time, postural problems develop, and in later stages the heart and breathing are affected as well.

Before the video consultation, the clinic needs a medical discharge summary with the diagnosis and case history; if available, genetic test results.

The clinic lists various forms of muscular dystrophy among the indications for physical therapy and collagen thread implantation, used together with occupational therapy to develop and maintain motor function.