This can lead to one shoulder or hip being higher than the other.īy their mid-teens, some people with Duchenne MD will develop dilated cardiomyopathy. They can also develop scoliosis, where the spine begins to curve sideways. have behavioural or learning difficultiesĬhildren with Duchenne MD may need a wheelchair by the time they're 12 years old, as their muscles weaken and they lose the ability to walk.be unable to climb the stairs without support.have difficulty walking, running or jumping.The muscles around their pelvis and thighs tend to be affected first and often appear bulkier than normal. Girls can occasionally be affected, although the condition tends to be milder.Ĭhildren with Duchenne MD usually start to have noticeable symptoms between 1 and 3 years of age. Duchenne muscular dystrophyĪs a result of the way it's inherited (see causes of MD), Duchenne MD mostly affects boys. Muscular Dystrophy UK has a list of muscle-weakening conditions. All types cause muscle weakness, but the areas affected and the severity of the symptoms are different. There are many different types of muscular dystrophy (MD).