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A72
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1992-09-20
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829b
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Muscular Dystrophy
SYMPTOMS. The weakness of the muscles cause frequent falls, a waddling gait,
toe-walking, difficulty in standing and climbing stairs. The calves of the
legs increase in size. DUCHENNE, the most common type, typically affects
boys of ages 3 to 7 years. Most victims are confined to wheelchairs by the
age of 10 or 12. Beginning in adolescence, FACIOSCAPULOHUMERAL, the less
common type, predominantly affect the face and shoulder girdle. Arms cannot
be lifted above the head and the face becomes expressionless.
CAUSES are unknown at this time. It is hereditary and progressive. Life
expectancy is normal for the facioscapulohumeral type.
TREATMENT. There is no specific treatment. If severe, exercise may help.
.Your doctor may recommend corrective surgery in some cases.