How Occupational Therapy Works for Spinocerebellar Ataxia?

How Occupational Therapy Works for Spinocerebellar Ataxia?

Understanding Spinocerebellar Ataxia

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Spinocerebellar Ataxia, also known as spinocerebellar atrophy, or spinocerebellar degeneration is a genetic disease caused by either a recessive or dominant gene.

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It refers to a group of ataxias that are known to be hereditary and cause harm to the cerebellum, the part of the brain which maintains balance and controls movements.

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Spinocerebellar Ataxia may result in non-coordinated gait, impaired hand-eye coordination, and abnormal speech.

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Because this condition affects the nervous system, it is also referred to as a nervous disorder.

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Spinocerebellar Ataxia has no cure, but can be managed with a tailored Ataxia treatment program that includes Stem Cell Therapy.

Symptoms of Spinocerebellar Ataxia

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Involuntary eye movements

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Poor hand-eye coordination

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Balance and coordination problems

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Learning and memory problems

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Uncoordinated walking

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Loss of fine motor skills

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Speech problems

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Spasticity

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Fatigue

Occupational Therapy and Spinocerebellar Ataxia

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As the Spinocerebellar Ataxia progresses, the patient gradually lose the ability to perform the essential daily tasks of life.

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Occupational Therapy is a form of Ataxia treatment in which the patient learns how to independently perform tasks like eating, washing, and getting dressed.

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An occupational therapist will analyze the patient and assess their ability to perform daily tasks on their own, the nature of the tasks they need to perform, the kind of environment they live and work in, the kind of physical assistance that is accessible, as well as the patient’s own preferences.

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They will then work with the patient to develop a program best suited to their specific needs and impairments.

Occupational Therapy and Spinocerebellar Ataxia

There are four main aspects to the treatment, as follows:

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Strategies and techniques, including functional exercises and tips on dealing with fatigue

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Use of assistive devices such as specially designed cutlery, electronic devices with bigger buttons, and voice-activated software for communication

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Use of mobility aids to get around better, such as crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs

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Changes to the environment to maximize patient safety and comfort, such as installing rails around the house for support or using non slip mats to avoid falls

Other Treatments for Spinocerebellar Ataxia

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Physical Therapy: This involves various exercises to strengthen and stretch the patient’s muscles for improved functionality, better coordination, improved gait, and reduced pain. The physical therapist will recommend tailored exercises to improve gross and fine motor skills, correct spasticity, and reduce the risk of muscular or bone deformations.

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Speech Therapy: As the Ataxia affects voluntary movements like speaking and swallowing, Speech Therapy is necessary to improve control over the muscles in the mouth, tongue, and jaw.

The speech therapist will guide the patient through exercises to improve articulation, chew food properly, swallow safely, and control their breathing.

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Stem Cell Therapy: This is a highly promising form of Ataxia treatment in which the patient’s own cells are used to help regenerate the cells damaged by the Spinocerebellar Ataxia.

Thank you.