DIFFERENT TYPES OF UPPER EXTREMITY EXERCISE TRAINING IN DUCHENNE MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY: EFFECTS ON FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE, STRENGTH, ENDURANCE, AND AMBULATION

IntroductionWe investigated and compared the effects of 2 different types of upper extremity exercise training on upper extremity function, strength, endurance, and ambulation in patients with early-stage Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). MethodsThe study group (n=12) exercised with an arm ergometer under the supervision of a physiotherapist, whereas the control group (n=12) underwent a strengthening range-of-motion (ROM) exercise program under the supervision of their families at home for 8 weeks. Upper extremity functional performance, strength, endurance, and ambulatory status were assessed before and after the training. ResultsAmbulation scores, endurance, and arm functions, as well as proximal muscle strength, were improved after the training in the study group (P<0.05). ConclusionsThese results demonstrate that upper extremity training with an arm ergometer is more effective in preserving and improving the functional level of early-stage DMD patients compared to ROM exercises alone. Muscle Nerve51:697-705, 2015