In May 2019, the FDA approved onasemnogene abeparovec- xioi gene therapy for children less than 2 years old who have infantile-onset SMA. A safe virus delivers a fully functional human SMN gene to the targeted motor neurons, which in turn improves muscle movement and function and also improves the chances of survival. In august 2020, the FDA approved the orally administered drug risdipalm to treat patients age two months of age or older with SMA.
Physical therapy, occupational therapy and rehabilitation may help improve posture and prevent joint mobility and slow muscle weakness and atrophy. Stretching and strengthening exercises may help in reduce spasticity, increase range of motion and keeps circulation flowing. Some individuals require additional therapy for speech, chewing and swallowing difficulties.
Heat therapy and heat pressure may relieve muscle pain. Assistive devices such as supports or braces, orthotics, speech synthesizers and wheelchairs might help some people retain independence. Proper nutrition and a balanced diet might help in preserving muscle mass and strength. Regular blood tests would help in understanding the progressing deficiencies better and aid in designing the diet accordingly.
During such periods it becomes essential to maintain the weight of the patient and preserve strength and noninvasive ventilation due to muscle weakness in the neck, throat or chest during day time.
Disease-modifying Therapy
These drugs stimulate the production of SMN protein. Nusinersen is for children ages 2 to 12. Your provider injects the drug into the space around the spinal canal. A different medication, risdaplam, is a medication orally taken to put a stop upon the symptoms.
Genre Replacement Therapy
Children younger than two may benefit from a one–time intravenous infusion of a drug called onasemnogene abeparvovoec-xioi. This therapy replaces a missing or faulty SMN1 gene with a functioning gene.
Since Stem Cell therapy cannot possibly bring and fervent changes into the health of the patients suffering from SMA, stem cell service providers such as stem cell care India can still help you in betterment. Their alternative therapies, as well as supportive therapies, can help in bringing stability in the life of the patient. Plus, depending upon the patient’s conditions, the care provider can also advise specific lifestyle changes which would help improve the fast-deteriorating conditions. Plus, in such conditions, preserving muscle tomes in limbs is a big challenge, and physiotherapists and occupational therapists can help in such endeavors.