The health care provider will do a nervous system (neurological)
and muscle examination. A careful medical history is also
important, because symptoms are similar to those of Duchenne
muscular dystrophy. However, Becker muscular dystrophy gets
worse much more slowly. An exam may find: Abnormally developed
bones, leading to deformities of the chest and back (scoliosis)
There is no known cure for Becker muscular dystrophy. The goal
of treatment is to control symptoms to maximize the person's
quality of life. Some doctors prescribe steroids to help keep a
patient walking for as long as possible. Activity is encouraged.
Inactivity (such as bed rest) can make the muscle disease worse.
Physical therapy may be helpful to maintain muscle strength.
Orthopedic appliances such as braces and wheelchairs may improve
movement and self-care. Genetic counseling may be recommended.
Daughters of a man with Becker muscular dystrophy may carry the
defective gene and could pass it on to their sons. You can ease
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