Definition & Meaning of "becker muscular dystrophy"

What is "becker muscular dystrophy"?

Becker muscular dystrophy (BMD) is a genetic disorder that causes progressive muscle weakness and wasting over time. BMD is caused by changes in the gene that provides instructions for making a protein called dystrophin, which is essential for maintaining muscle strength and structure. Symptoms of BMD typically begin in childhood or as a teenager and may include difficulty walking, muscle cramps, and weakness in the legs and pelvis. Over time, the weakness may progress to other muscles in the body, including the arms and respiratory muscles. Treatment for BMD focuses on managing symptoms and may include physical therapy, assistive devices such as braces or wheelchairs, and medications to address specific symptoms. While there is currently no cure for BMD, ongoing research may lead to new treatments and interventions in the future.