Non-drug Treatments

Physiotherapy is focused on movement. It involves a physical therapist who will design an exercise program tailored to the needs of the patient to improve posture, prevent joint immobility, and slow muscle weakness and atrophy. Stretching and strengthening exercises may help reduce spasticity, increase range of motion, and improve circulation.

Occupational therapy focuses on adjustments that help patients such as those with SMA manage their everyday lives, as well as improve their quality of life. An occupational therapist first assesses the abilities and needs of the patient, then advises which interventions might be helpful. An occupational therapist works together with physiotherapists who focus on movement and exercises to improve body function.

Speech therapists work with SMA patients who have difficulty speaking, chewing, and swallowing. Therapists design a program of exercises to strengthen jaw and throat muscles, as well as suggesting aids that may make day-to-day tasks easier. Patients should meet with a speech therapist as soon as possible after diagnosis if speech, language, or swallowing are affected.

Muscular atrophy around the spine can lead scoliosis, a condition in which the spine bends and most often into an S shape. Most SMA patients develop scoliosis, many while they are still children. Scoliosis can lead to other complications, such as problems with breathing because the curved spine deprives the lungs of room in which to expand. The condition can be treated with surgery or braces.

Whole-body vibration is a therapy intended to improve muscle strength and overall fitness. In SMA patients, it has the potential to improve motor function and mobility. During the therapy, the person sits or lies on a machine with a vibrating platform. The device sends energy to the body, which forces the muscle to contract and relax dozens of times per second.