Effects of an Individualized Aquatic Therapy Program on Respiratory Muscle Function in Adolescents with Muscular Dystrophy

Abstract

To determine the effects of an eight-week individualized aquatic therapy program on pulmonary muscle function in children with Duchene Muscular Dystrophy. To determine the effects of an eight-week individualized aquatic therapy program on quality of life in children with Duchene Muscular Dystrophy. Duchene Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive neuromuscular disorder that begins with weakness in proximal musculature and progresses to impact distal and respiratory muscles. Because pulmonary complications are the leading cause of mortality, emphasis in rehabilitation is placed on maintaining functional mobility and pulmonary strength for as long as possible. Stretching, strengthening and bracing are mainstays of current care, and therapists look for ways to engage these young men in meaningful activities to maintain function. Aquatics is a community activity that can also be used for therapeutic purposes. However, it can have a negative impact on respiratory function. Therefore, this small case series began to investigate the use of aquatics in young males with DMD at various points in the disease progression.