21 disabilities under RPWD 2016 – Muscular Dystrophy

As part of series on the 21 disabilities included under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPWD) Act, 2016, today we talk about Muscular Dystrophy (MD).

What is Muscular dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy is a group of diseases that cause weakness and loss of muscle mass. Muscles are soft tissues that help the body to move around. Stronger muscles mean a stronger body with better stamina. Muscular dystrophy weakens the muscles and affects the stamina, strength and functions of the body.

What causes MD

It has been found that defects in genes can cause Muscular Dystrophy. There are some genes that are responsible for making the proteins that protect muscle fibres from damage. When these genes are defective, muscles weaken and deteriorate over time.

Signs of MD

The most common sign is the slow weakening of muscles. The signs and symptoms can appear at different ages and in different muscle groups, depending on the type of muscular dystrophy.

Other signs of MD are:

– Frequent falls

– Difficulty rising from a lying or sitting up position

– Trouble running and jumping

– Improper gait, walking on the toes

– Large calf muscles

– Muscle pain and stiffness

– Learning disabilities

– Heart problems

Types of MD

1. Duchenne type muscular dystrophy

2. Becker muscular dystrophy

3. Myotonic dystrophy

4. Facioscapulohumeral dystrophy

5. Congenital dystrophy

6. Limb-girdle dystrophy

It is advisable to consult a doctor when you observe muscle weakness or have been clumsier, dropping things or falling yourself.

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