Use of Dynamic Arm Supports to Promote Activities of Daily Living in Individuals With DMD

This study is a longitudinal, randomized control trial evaluating the use of two commercially available dynamic arm support devices (1) Armon Ayura‐Kinova and 2) JAECO WREX) to promote participation in activities of daily living (ADLs) in non‐ambulatory individuals with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) with upper extremity weakness. Up to 30 individuals will be enrolled to participate in this research study, which includes a two‐week baseline data collection period, a four‐week device trial and a two‐week post device data collection period. Participants will be randomly assigned to trial one of the dynamic arm support devices during the four week in‐home trial. The ActiGraph GT9x (name of device), a wrist worn activity monitoring device, will be worn during the baseline period, the device trial and the post device data collection period to capture upper extremity (UE) movement patterns. UE performance will be further quantified with use of a physical motor assessment, the Performance of Upper Limb (PUL) assessment and patient reported outcomes. Data gleaned will provide important knowledge and objective results regarding the potential benefit of dynamic arm supports in individuals with DMD with limited functional use of their upper extremities.