Regular Physical Exercise in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
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.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Patients with conclusive DMD diagnosis

 -  Written consent

 -  Able to perform physical exercise and answer questions

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Lack of consent

 -  Cognitive disabled unable to answer questionnaire, understand instructions, and able
 to know what they participate in.

 -  Language difficulties