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Effects of Posture and Quality of Life in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Children
Sponsor: Riphah International University
Summary
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive neuromuscular disorder predominantly affecting boys and men, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 3,800 to 1 in 6,200 live male births. This condition leads to progressive muscle weakness due to the absence of the dystrophin protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle cell integrity. Symptoms and functional impairments typically become apparent by the age of two, and individuals with DMD have an average life expectancy of around 28 years. Treatment is generally multifaceted, focusing on enhancing quality of life (QOL) and postural control. The Alexander technique is employed to improve QOL and postural tone, as well as to modify body schema, with reported benefits from these changes. This method leverages spatial attention and executive functions that influence basic motor skills through targeted attention, intention, and haptic communication, thereby enhancing the QOL and postural control of the upper limbs. The aim of the study is to determine the effects of Alexander's technique on postural control of upper limb and quality of life in children with duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Official title: Effects of Alexander Technique on Posture Control of Upper Limb and Quality of Life in Children With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Key Details
Gender
MALE
Age Range
5 Years - 9 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
33
Start Date
2025-10-27
Completion Date
2026-02-28
Last Updated
2026-02-27
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Alexander Technique Program
Alexander technique involves postural and proprioceptive re-education and focuse on teaches the correct use of postural mechanism, coordination of trunk and head as a core relationship for good movement. In DMD neck muscles are compromised due to less amount of dystrophin and adopt bad posture of neck which decrease postural control and QOL. Through this technique participants will complete 12 training sessions within 6 weeks (2 per week) of 40 mins. Will examining body habits and patterns during various activities (5 min). Teaching and applying the basic principles of Alexander technique, including inhibition, primary control, and direction in various activities, such as sitting, standing, walking, studying, and lifting objects using tactile and verbal feedback (30 min). These exercises will perform to improve the neck, shoulder and upper limb muscles for strengthening and improve to upper limb postural control and quality of life.
Locations (1)
Psrd Hospital
Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan