Abstract
This paper highlights the key role that paediatric physiotherapists have in the treatment and management of neuromuscular disorders. However, in order to fully appreciate this role, an understanding of the psychosocial implications of progressive neuromuscular disorders, and the impact this has upon the family unit is necessary. Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is the most common childhood neuromuscular disorder and many texts acknowledge the paradigm that the family is the patient. Management of this group should take into account the impact of the social, emotional and physical manifestation of the condition upon the family unit. This review discusses the literature to date in this field and offers an insight into the complex family dynamics of caring for a young man with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. By exploring the psychosocial aspect of this degenerative disorder, the physiotherapist will be better equipped to manage the changing needs of this client group whilst assisting the family to adapt to each new stage of the disease progression.
Citation
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy—a biopsychosocial approach
Marina Morrow
Physiotherapy - September 2004 (Vol. 90, Issue 3, Pages 145-150, DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2004.03.004)