Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy(DMD)

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive form of muscular dystrophy. DMD causes progressive weakness and loss (atrophy) of skeletal and heart muscles. DMD may also affect learning and memory, as well as communication and certain social emotional skills.

Dr. Poysky is internationally recognized as an expert on Muscular Dystrophy, and is chair of a muscular dystrophy expert panel coordinated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (the CDC).

He is a contributing author to "A Guide to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy"

Dr. Poysky provides assessments for DMD patients with particular focus on domains that have a greater risk for problems in DMD.

The testing covers cognitive functioning, which usually includes: IQ(verbal and nonverbal reasoning), attention, short-term/working memory, executive functioning, academic skills, motor planning, verbal fluency, etc.

Emotional adjustment is also evaluated, including things like coping, anxiety/OCD, depression, behavioral regulation/ADHD, rigid thinking, temper outbursts, social adjustment, independence.

The specific tests to be administered will be decided after the clinical interview.

More information and resources:

For parents and educators: Learning and Behavior Guide in Duchenne Muscular Dystophy ,
Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy