Muscular dystrophy is caused by changes in the genes that make proteins needed to form healthy muscles. Most of these gene changes are passed from parents to children.

The main symptom of muscular dystrophy is muscle weakness that becomes worse over time. Some people develop serious medical challenges, such as trouble walking, breathing or swallowing.

No cure for muscle dystrophy exists. But treatments can help manage the symptoms and slow the course of the disease. These include medicines, physical therapy, mobility devices and sometimes surgery.