Rehabilitation in spinal muscular atrophy

Abstract

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive disorder with symptoms of progressive skeletal muscular atrophy which requires multidisciplinary medical care. The advent of nusinersen treatment has created a paradigm shift in rehabilitation treatment for SMA. However, the principles of rehabilitation remain the same for the respiratory, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, and speech and nutrition care which are all required. Patient education based on multiple sources of easily available evidence-based information has improved quality of life and has changed treatment goals. Functional assessment is critical before rehabilitation is commenced. In general, SMA patients are classified as “nonsitter,” “sitter,” and “walker.” This review provides an update on rehabilitation provided in contemporary SMA centers.

Keywords

• breathing
• musculoskeletal
• nutrition
• patient education
• rehabilitation
• speech therapy
• spinal muscular atrophy