Muscular Dystrophy

The effect of muscular dystrophy on the motor system is severe and immense. Muscular dystrophy (Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy) is caused by the inhibition to create the protein dystrophin. In a healthy muscle cell, dystrophin is used to attach actin with the sarcolemma. The sarcolemma provides actin with protection, while the actin bonds to the myofibrils which is made out of mysosin. This bonding allows muscles to contract. Without this protein, actin cannot gain protection from the sarcolemma, and the muscles are unable to contract. Therefore, there is muscle weakness and the disability to properly move. Although currently there is no cure for muscular dystrophy, there is treatment available for patients. Treatment includes physical therapy, different kinds of exercises and prednizone medication. As well, it is suggested to have more meat and antioxidants, along with many other dietary regulations Although muscular dystrophy directly affects the muscle system, it also effects the other systems. Some of the systems affected are the nervous system, endocrine system, eyes, circulatory system and skeletal muscles. The skeletal system is affected greatly as muscles are used to support the bones. If that support is not available, the skeletal system will not be able to function.

Any other suggestions of how Muscular Dystrophy affects other body systems?

The disease prevents the person from walking, so it takes its toll on the muscles. Coupled with this, it leads to respiratory difficulty and a limited range of movement. If one can't move, they will have heart problems as well, and one commonly noted symptom is cardiomyopathy, which is the deterioration of the function of ones myocardium (the heart muscle), usually leading to heart failure. Some children with muscular dystrophy die in infancy, and if not, they begin to experience muscle issues especially around the pelvis, shoulder, face or elsewhere.