Clinical Physiotherapy Approaches in Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a story that brings together genetic discovery,
neurological science, and rehabilitation innovation. For years, SMA was
considered a relentlessly progressive neuromuscular disease with few available
treatment options. Disorders that have traditionally been viewed as poor prognosis
with limited meaningful life many now intersect at the interface of genetics and
therapy, where advances in molecular genetics, early diagnosis via newborn
screening, and disease-modifying therapies are transforming both prognosis and
functional expectations.
As such, these medical innovations and advancements provide an enormous
challenge for rehabilitative professionals —especially physiotherapists —to
evolve, grow and optimize clinical practice. SMA individuals now live longer,
achieve developmental milestones once thought impossible, and enter adolescence
and adulthood with changing functional requirements. Physiotherapy wan thus
transformed from a predominantly passive and preventive health care delivery
system to an active, dynamic, and life-long treatment oriented model.
In light of this increasing gap, this book was created: a focused, evidence based
and clinically relevant resource to aid physiotherapy management in SMA. It
marries basic knowledge of genetics and pathophysiology with applied
rehabilitation science to develop approaches that encompass:
 Early neurodevelopmental intervention
 Functional motor training and strengthening
 Respiratory physiotherapy
 Orthopedic management and deformity prevention
 Assistive technology and mobility solutions
 Fatigue and pain management
 Psychosocial and vocational transition