What is Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy?

Limb-girdle muscular dystrophy refers to a large group of muscle disorders that causes weakness of the muscles in the limbs (legs and arms) and girdle area (hips, pelvis, abdomen).

Like other muscular dystrophies, limb-girdle can affect other body systems, such as the heart in some instances. As the disease progresses, limb-girdle muscular dystrophy can also cause weakness of the breathing and swallowing muscles.

Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Care at Stanford

At Stanford, we provide comprehensive care of the whole patient with limb-girdle muscular dystrophy. Our subspecialists meet weekly to review patients from every angle and develop a treatment plan that takes a holistic view.

Our Neuromuscular Program holds an MDA Clinic designation from the Muscular Dystrophy Association. This designation signifies we provide multispecialty care (involving a team of specialists working together) in one location for muscular dystrophy patients.

Learn more about the expertise of our team at the Neuromuscular Program.

What are the Symptoms of Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy?

Symptoms may begin at any age and can vary widely – or resemble symptoms of other disorders. That is why it is important to be evaluated by an expert who can recognize the signs and symptoms.

Learn more about limb-girdle muscular dystrophy symptoms.

How is Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Diagnosed?

For many patients, achieving an accurate diagnosis takes several years. At Stanford, we may be able to diagnose limb-girdle muscular dystrophy faster because our neuromuscular doctors have decades of experience identifying even the rarest types of limb-girdle muscular dystrophies.

Learn more about limb-girdle muscular dystrophy diagnosis at Stanford.

Treating Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy

At Stanford, we take a comprehensive, holistic approach to treating individuals with any type of muscular dystrophy.

Learn more about our approach to limb-girdle muscular dystrophy treatment at Stanford.