Innovations in assistive technology in pediatric Duchenne muscular dystrophy: A scoping review.

SIGNIFICANCE: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressively debilitating genetic condition linked to the X chromosome, characterized by gradual muscle weakening, leading to loss of mobility and reduced autonomy in affected youngsters. Improved medical care has led to higher survival rates, resulting in a greater demand for assistive technologies that aid mobility, upper limb function, and daily activities to improve long-term quality of life.

AIM: To systematically document recent advancements in assistive technologies and identify current research trends and gaps in the literature that are relevant for children with DMD.

APPROACH: PubMed, PEDro and Scopus databases were searched from inception to November 2025 from studies published in recent years focusing on assistive technologies for children with DMD. The PRISMA ScR protocol was followed and Quality was assessed using Sackett level of evidence. Data were synthesized narratively to describe device characteristics, targeted functional domains, reported outcomes, and study limitations.

RESULTS

Out of 1029 records, 20 eligible studies were identified, with 8 using exoskeleton or robotic devices, 4 employing gait exoskeleton, 2 utilizing virtual reality, 5 incorporating wearable sensor systems or digital biomarkers, and 1 utilizing an orthotic device. However, most studies were limited by small sample sizes, short follow-up durations, prototype-based designs, and a lack of standardized outcome measures.

CONCLUSION

Quality of life and functional abilities of DMD children may be enhanced by advancements in assistive technology. Clinical efficacy, feasibility, and integration into standard pediatric rehabilitation therapy require well-designed clinical trials with long-term follow-up and user-centered design techniques.