Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Dr R. Quinlivan

Group/Researcher: Dr R. Quinlivan, Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic and District Hospital


This study proposes to investigate the use of a novel ankle foot orthosis to assist walking in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

DMD is characterised by progressive muscle weakness and muscle contractures. Loss of independent walking is inevitable, and commonly occurs between the ages of six and twelve. At present, steroid treatment is the only treatment that prolongs independent walking. Children with DMD often toe walk to compensate for their leg weakness and so develop contractures - a loss of joint motion - initially at the ankle. As the weakness and contractures progress, balance becomes more difficult, leading to the loss of independent walking.

A recent experience using a novel orthosis/footwear combination that supports the toe walking has shown excellent results in improving stability and stamina in walking and reducing leg pain in a boy with DMD. Three dimensional movement analysis has demonstrated improvements in walking parameters such as speed and step length.

This study of ten boys with DMD will examine the children and their family’s opinion on the novel ankle foot orthosis, measure its effect on walking parameters using three dimensional movement analysis and measure changes in activity levels using a physical activity logging system - an electronic device that measures activity including time spent upright and number of steps.

It is hoped that this novel orthosis/footwear combination may offer a new and unique strategy to improve walking ability in children with DMD. Significantly, this study will also measure the direct impact on the boys as their opinion is an important factor in the study.