What is muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy is accurately defined as a group of inherited disorders that lead to progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. This occurs due to defects in the genes responsible for producing proteins essential for healthy muscle structure and function. Over time, the lack of these proteins results in muscle fibers that are more susceptible to damage and less able to regenerate, leading to a gradual decline in muscle strength and function.

This condition manifests in various forms, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and Becker muscular dystrophy, each with different patterns of inheritance and severity. The progressive nature of these disorders is a key characteristic, contributing to significant physical disability as the individual ages. The focus on inheritance highlights the genetic nature of muscular dystrophy, distinguishing it from other musculoskeletal conditions that may arise from environmental factors or autoimmune processes.