Muscular Dystrophy Factsheet
Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a genetic disorder that weakens the muscles that help the body
to move. People with MD can have missing information in their genes, which prevents them
from making the proteins they need for healthy muscles.
People with MD can gradually lose the ability to do the things most people take for granted,
like walking or sitting up.
There are around 60 different forms of the disorder, and they can affect people of all ages.
Some people have muscle problems as a baby but others develop the symptoms later in life,
even as an adult.
The cause and symptoms of the various disorders change from person to person. This
means people affected by muscular dystrophy have different degrees of independence,
mobility and carer needs. These needs will vary within and between each form of the
disorder.
Currently, doctors and researchers are trialling various treatments to stop the progression of
the disease. Through early diagnosis, proper therapy and support an increased quality of life
is possible. It is estimated that there are more than 20,000 people in Australia who have
some form of the disease.
Where to get help
- Your doctor
- Muscular Dystrophy Foundation Australia – information, the latest research, events and programs
- Muscular Dystrophy Association Tel. (03) 9320 9555
How Just Better Care can help
Just Better Care can support individuals and their family’s right through from diagnosis
through the disease process of muscular dystrophy. Our network can provide simple
referrals to other services that may be of assistance to the individual and their family. Often a
person with Muscular dystrophy will lose some use of their muscles and may require a range
of supports that may include:
Assistance with accessing the appropriate aids and equipment required to assist in their
independence
Assistance with managing everyday living tasks such as managing personal care, toileting,
dressing and grooming
Support with access activities such as education, workplace activities, outing and
appointment with transportation and tranfers as and when is needed
Social support through a range of activities both in home and out of home activities
Support for care givers through respite care can often although the main carer to have a
break
Our staff are skilled and ongoing education including support for clients with complex health
conditions is offered. All services are tailored to an individuals needs and can be changed
throughout the disease process.
References
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