Final answer:
The Gowers' maneuver is a sign of lower limb muscle weakness in Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a condition causing progressive muscular degeneration due to lack of dystrophin.
Step-by-step explanation:
The characteristic behavior of a child with Duchenne's muscular dystrophy having to push on his leg to rise to a standing position is known as the Gowers' maneuver. This action is seen in individuals who experience significant muscle weakness in the lower limbs, which is a hallmark sign of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). DMD is a progressive weakening of the skeletal muscles, predominantly affecting males, due to a lack of the protein dystrophin. This protein is essential for connecting muscle fibers to the cell membrane, and its absence leads to muscle degeneration and weakness. Early signs of DMD include difficulty with balance and motion, and as the condition progresses, patients typically lose the ability to walk and may require braces or wheelchairs. Eventually, DMD affects the muscles responsible for breathing and circulation, leading to respiratory failure. The lifespan of individuals with DMD is often reduced, with many not living past their 20s.