Safety, feasibility, and efficacy of strengthening exercise in <scp>Duchenne</scp> muscular dystrophy
Donovan J. Lott, Tanja Taivassalo, Korey D. Cooke, Hyunjun Park, Zahra Moslemi, Abhinandan Batra, Sean C. Forbes, Barry J. Byrne, Glenn A. Walter, Krista Vandenborne
Abstract
Abstract Background This two‐part study explored the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of a mild–moderate resistance isometric leg exercise program in ambulatory boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Methods First, we used a dose escalation paradigm with varying intensity and frequency of leg isometric exercise to determine the dose response and safety in 10 boys. Second, we examined safety and feasibility of a 12‐wk in‐home, remotely supervised, mild–moderate intensity strengthening program in eight boys. Safety measures included T 2 MRI, creatine kinase levels, and pain. Peak strength and function (time to ascend/descend four stairs) were also measured. Results Dose‐escalation revealed no signs of muscle damage. Seven of the eight boys completed the 12‐wk in‐home program with a compliance of 84.9%, no signs of muscle damage, and improvements in strength (knee extensors P < .01; knee flexors P < .05) and function (descending steps P < .05). Conclusions An in‐home, mild–moderate intensity leg exercise program is safe with potential to positively impact both strength and function in ambulatory boys with DMD.