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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Does Tight Heel Cords Associated With Genetics Indicate?

Hi, I have a 2 year old daughter and have been told she has "tight heel cords". She is going to see Genetics next week because of the muscle stiffness she has had since she was born. She waddles when she walks, is very clumsy, and almost runs without bending her legs. Her pedi reccomended Genetics to check for muscular dystrophy. I would appreciate it if you could go into this a little more before her appt to put my mind at rest. Thanks!!!
Mon, 15 Sep 2014
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Pediatrician,  's  Response
Thanks for posting on HealthCareMagic. Your daughter seems to have a condition called achilles-tendinopathy (tight achilles tendon) as you mention. However, there is another condition called Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) which your doctor wants to rule out. DMD is characterised by weakness of lower limbs and inability to walk properly. It is caused due to a defect in dystrophin gene and hence you have been referred to genetics.

Since I do not have any further information on the exact problems your child has, it is difficult for me to comment further. Information on whether the baby cried at birth would have been helpful.
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Note: For detailed guidance on genetic screening consult a genetics specialist
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What Does Tight Heel Cords Associated With Genetics Indicate?

Thanks for posting on HealthCareMagic. Your daughter seems to have a condition called achilles-tendinopathy (tight achilles tendon) as you mention. However, there is another condition called Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) which your doctor wants to rule out. DMD is characterised by weakness of lower limbs and inability to walk properly. It is caused due to a defect in dystrophin gene and hence you have been referred to genetics. Since I do not have any further information on the exact problems your child has, it is difficult for me to comment further. Information on whether the baby cried at birth would have been helpful.