Evaluation of Serial Casting for Boys with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Case Report

ABSTRACT

Aim: To report the effects of below-knee serial casting in two boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy who presented with well-preserved strength and calf shortening. Methods: Bilateral below-knee serial casts were applied over two weeks with follow-up of daily stretching and wearing of customized night splints. Outcome measures were performed at baseline, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months post-casting. These included measures of calf length, leg strength, motor function, endurance, and spatio-temporal gait parameters. Results: Both boys completed serial casting with gains in muscle length. No adverse effects on strength or motor function were observed over a 12-month follow-up period.

KEYWORDS:

• Duchenne muscular dystrophy
• calf muscle shortening
• serial casting
• gait
• motor function

Declaration of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.

About the Authors

Kate Carroll and Katy de Valle are senior clinician physiotherapists working in research and providing clinical care to children with neuromuscular diseases. Andrew Kornberg is an Associate Professor and senior neurologist who founded the neuromuscular clinic at The Royal Children's Hospital. Monique Ryan is a Professor and head of the Department of Neurology engaged in clinical, teaching and research activity. She has a particular interest in neuromuscular disease. Rachel Kennedy is a senior clinician physiotherapist working in research and providing clinical care to children with neuromuscular diseases.