What is a primary goal of physical therapy in muscular dystrophy?

• A. Maintain range of motion to delay contractures and maximize independence
• B. Increase muscle mass rapidly
• C. Cure the disease
• D. Eliminate need for assistive devices

Answer: (A)

In muscular dystrophy, the focus of physical therapy is keeping joints flexible and preventing contractures so a person can stay independent and functional longer. When muscles weaken and joints stiffen, mobility declines and daily activities become harder; regular stretching, position changes, and guided ROM help preserve range of motion and function, and they also support better breathing by keeping the chest wall mobile. Therapy emphasizes safe, progressive exercises rather than trying to rapidly build muscle mass, since the disease involves progressive muscle loss and muscle-building is not a cure. Aimed goals include delaying loss of function and maximizing quality of life, rather than curing the disease or fully eliminating the need for assistive devices, which may still be required as the condition progresses.