Evaluation of Respiratory Functions, Chest Movements, and Exercise Capacity in Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and Spinal Muscular Atrophy Compared to Healthy Controls

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating respiratory functions, thoracoabdominal movements, and exercise capacity in children diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) and Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) compared to healthy children. This cross-sectional study is conducted at Lokman Hekim University Muscle and Nerve Diseases Application and Research Center from May 2024 to December 2025. The goal is to identify differences in respiratory and muscular parameters among these groups to help guide future therapies. The study includes 42 children divided into three groups of 14: those with DMD, those with SMA, and healthy controls. Respiratory function will be assessed using spirometry and Structured Light Plethysmography (SLP) to measure lung volumes and thoracoabdominal movement during normal breathing. Functional tests include the Six-Minute Walk Test for ambulatory children, the Six-Minute Peg Board Ring Test for non-ambulatory children, and hand grip strength measured with a dynamometer. Each test is done under standardized conditions with monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. Participants will undergo various assessments including lung function tests, thoracoabdominal motion recording, walking or pegboard ring tests, and hand grip strength measurements. Data will be analyzed statistically to compare groups and explore correlations. Safety and ethical standards are maintained with informed consent and data protection. The study duration spans 20 months, with all measurements completed during this period to evaluate baseline respiratory and exercise capacity.

Respiratory Functions, Thoracoabdominal Movements and Exercise Capacity in Neuromuscular Diseases