MUSCULAR DYSTROPHY

A hereditary condition marked by progressive weakening and wasting of the muscles.

CAUSES

• A genetic mutation
• Many of these are inherited
• Some occur spontaneously in the mother's egg

SYMPTOMS

• Frequent falls
• Trouble running and jumping
• Walking on the toes
• Muscle pain and stiffness
• Large calf muscles

DETECTION

• A muscle biopsy
• Genetic testing
• Electromyography or nerve conduction tests

TREATMENT

• No real cure
• Medications
• Physical therapy
• And surgical procedures

SOURCES

• Mayoclinic.org
• http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/musculardystrophy.html