Mild, varied issues with motor development and muscle weakness can become more apparent in this age range. You may notice some of the following signs and symptoms:

• Scoliosis
• Difficulties with physical activities
• Progression of muscle weakness and muscle loss
• Balance issues
• Numbness and tingling or pain in hands and feet
• Uneven weakness in proximal musclesMuscles that are located closer to the torso (neck, shoulder, biceps). (upper arms, shoulders, and upper legs) and distal musclesMuscles that are farther away from the torso (forearms, calves, feet, hands). (forearms and below the knee)
• Diminished or lack of deep tendon reflexesA tendon is a tough cord or band of dense white fibrosis connective tissue that unites a muscle with another part (for example a bone) and exerts a reflex action in which a muscle is made to contract by a blow upon its tendon. (areflexiaThe absence of reflexes.)
• Inability to sense the orientation of body parts and balance issues (proprioceptionThe perception based on awareness of the position of one’s body.)
• Difficulties with balance and proprioception (inability to sense)
• Decreased response to touch below the knee
• Joint instability or joint contracturesTightening in or around a joint that occurs when muscles surrounding the joint weaken and other muscles remain strong or increase in strength to accommodate the weakness. Joint contractures are more common in the feet, ankles, hips, hands, and wrists.
• Clumsy walking (gait), frequent tripping and clumsiness
• High arches or flat feet