Distal muscular dystrophy affects the muscles of the hands, feet, lower arms, and lower legs, and first appears in men and women between the ages of 40 and 60. It generally affects fewer muscles and progresses more slowly than other forms of muscular dystrophy.

Muscular dystrophy is a group of inherited diseases that cause muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass. These conditions are progressive, meaning the symptoms worsen over time. There's no cure for muscular dystrophy, but appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and slow disease progression.