Different types of upper extremity exercise training in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Effects on functional performance, strength, endurance, and ambulation
Muscle and Nerve, vol.51, no.5, pp.697-705, 2015 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 51 Issue: 5
- Publication Date: 2015
- Doi Number: 10.1002/mus.24451
- Journal Name: Muscle and Nerve
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
- Page Numbers: pp.697-705
- Keywords: Duchenne muscular dystrophy, endurance, exercise, function, upper extremity, NO USE, BOYS, HAND, STEROIDS, CHILDREN, TRIAL, LIFE, DMD
- Lokman Hekim University Affiliated: No
Abstract
© 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.Introduction: We 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). Methods: The 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. Results: Ambulation scores, endurance, and arm functions, as well as proximal muscle strength, were improved after the training in the study group (P<0.05). Conclusions: These 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.