Duchenne progresses in a proximal to distal pattern, meaning muscles closest to the core of the body, including muscles of the hips, become weaker first. Regularly stretching the hips and legs may help to prevent pain and may help to preserve walking. This video demonstrates how to stretch the muscles in the hips and legs to help maintain range of motion at these joints with an ambulatory person living with Duchenne.
Disclaimer: This is a video of stretching exercises for mobility in someone with Duchenne. Stretching should not be painful. DO NOT continue to do the stretch if it causes pain, you notice difficulty breathing, or discomfort. Each stretch/position should be held for 30 seconds and can be repeated up to 3 times.
Benefits of these exercises vary: they may help to keep the joint mobile within its available range, may increase your tolerance to stretch, may improve circulation to the muscle, may decrease discomfort, and may give a feeling of well-being.
Consult your Physical Therapist to ask if these are appropriate for you.
by: Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy
