Safety, feasibility, and efficacy of strengthening exercise in Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

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.