Regular Physical Exercise in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

This study examine whether an evidence-based individual user-preferred exercise program will increase the physical activity level in boys with Duchenne muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

Regular physical activity is recommended in DMD. However, due to progression of muscle weakness and loss of function, a sedentary lifestyle is normal, and disuse of still functioning muscles leads to a secondary deterioration. Use of steroids have proven to decrease the rate of progression, and also leads to adverse advents like obesity and osteoporosis. Use of muscle strength training and aerobe exercise in DMD, may optimize muscle function, cardio-respiratory fitness and overall physical activity level, in addition to decrease possible adverse advents. In this study, children with DMD attending Haukeland University Hospital will be invited to participate (N≈14). The participant's physical activity level is registered during a four week baseline period and follow up. At start, 6 months and 12 months, a five day hospital stay will be conducted, both for testing and to prescribe an individual user preferred physical exercise program. The exercise program will be performed at home between the hospital visits. Benefits, safety and feasibility of regular physical exercise will be examined during follow-up and end of study. For comparison of the physical activity level and motor function, DMD children attending standards of care follow-up at others Norwegian regional pediatric rehabilitation clinics will be invited to participate in a control group.