Biomechanical Analysis of Gait in Individuals With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive disease of muscle characterized
by a progressive loss of functional muscle mass, which is replaced with fibrofatty tissue.
Historically, boys with DMD lose the ability to walk between the ages of 8-12 years, due to
progressive weakness of the quadriceps coupled with the development of contractures at the
hip, knee and ankle. This progressive loss in function necessitates individuals with DMD to
spend less time walking and more time in wheelchairs, leading to the development of spinal
deformities. Recently, corticosteroids have been shown to reduce the expected loss of muscle
strength, extend the time that ambulation and standing are maintained, and minimize or
eliminate spinal deformity in individuals with DMD; yet, the side effects of such treatment
preclude use in some patients. To date, differences in gait patterns and other markers of
disease progression between boys on corticosteroids and those not utilizing such treatment
have not been objectively quantified. This lack of knowledge is a major obstacle to
determining the most effective treatment for subsets of boys with DMD.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Confirmed diagnosis of DMD

- Male.

- Four years of age or older.

- Ability to walk independently for five minutes to 10 minutes at self-selected speed.

- Ability to cognitively understand directions for testing procedures.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Female

- Nonambulatory