Occupational Therapy and Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is the most common and usually most severe form of muscular dystrophy. It is an inherited disorder, caused by a defective gene and rapidly progresses to muscular weakness and skeletal deformities, which contribute to frequent breathing and heart disorders. Increasingly, occupational therapists (OTs) are called upon to work with those with the condition and their family in the early stages of DMD, and then through to the middle and late stages. Written by experienced OTs with a specialist interest in DMD, the book: - Provides a medical overview and the OT process for working with people with DMD
- Examines the psychosocial and emotional impact of DMD
- Includes case studies of four young men living with the condition
- Details the care needs of the individual from pre-school to young adults living independently
- Looks at issues of moving and handling, community care, leisure, housing, education and employment
- Discusses the role of the hospice, anticipatory grief and bereavement. This practical guide is a resource that facilitates a flexible and informed clinical approach to occupational therapy with this client group. It will assist occupational therapists in all practice settings, healthcare professionals and provide a reference for referral for doctors. It also provides useful information for the families of young people with the condition.