Rehabilitation in spinal muscular atrophy

Rehabilitation is the main part of a complex care in patients with spinal muscular atrophy. Early diagnosis is very important for the initiation of the next interventions. The text bellow contains a summary of recommendations for adequate rehabilitation care in child patients with this neuromuscular disease. Multidisciplinary care includes professionals such as pediatric neurologists, pediatric physiatrists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, orthotics and advisors in adequate medical equipment considering the age of the patient and the stage of the disease. The goal of every intervention should be for the patients to be as sellsufficient as possible, including independent mobility, self-moving, pain relief and the ability to participate in school activities or work. In child patients there should be a therapeutic focus on the ability to play with other children or independent play.