Which of the following interventions should be avoided in DMD patients?

In patients with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), the progressive nature of the condition leads to increasing muscle weakness and atrophy, particularly in the proximal muscles. Walking aids, while beneficial to provide some mobility support, can actually lead to increased dependence and may not delay or prevent the progression of muscle weakness effectively.

Patients with DMD often experience fatigue and muscle exhaustion after engaging activities such as walking. Therefore, the use of walkers may inadvertently encourage overexertion, causing the patient to expend energy that leads to quicker deterioration of muscle function. It's vital to manage physical activity judiciously to avoid fatigue, and the risk of falls is heightened as the disease progresses.

In contrast, water therapy, stretching exercises, and functional activities are typically recommended for DMD patients, as these interventions can help maintain joint flexibility, promote muscle relaxation, and enhance overall mobility without overexerting the individual. Thus, avoiding the use of walkers is a crucial consideration in the management of DMD to safeguard the patient's remaining muscle function and mobility capabilities.