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Different types of upper extremity exercise training in Duchenne muscular dystrophy: Effects on functional performance, strength, endurance, and ambulation
Author(s) -
Alemdaroğlu Ipek,
Karaduman Ayşe,
Yilmaz Öznur Tunca,
Topaloğlu Haluk
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
muscle and nerve
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.025
H-Index - 145
eISSN - 1097-4598
pISSN - 0148-639X
DOI - 10.1002/mus.24451
Subject(s) - duchenne muscular dystrophy , medicine , physical therapy , physical medicine and rehabilitation , ambulatory , endurance training , range of motion , muscular dystrophy , functional training , physical strength , muscle strength
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. Muscle Nerve 51 :697–705, 2015