6 Exercise Guide for Adults with Spinocerebellar Ataxia

 Spinocerebellar Ataxia (SCA) refers to a group of genetic diseases that cause degeneration in the nervous system. It mainly affects the part of the brain that controls movement (cerebellum) and sometimes the spinal cord. SCA is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner — a pattern of genetic disease inheritance where a single copy of an altered gene is enough to cause the disease.

Different types of SCA are classified based on the altered gene responsible for causing the specific type of the disease. The signs and symptoms may vary by type but are similar, and generally includes an uncoordinated walk, poor hand-eye coordination, and abnormal speech. Genetic testing is the best way to confirm SCA and identify the specific type.

Treatment for Spinocerebellar Ataxia centers around improving quality of life and requires an individualized approach. Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, Stem Cell Therapy along with intensive neuro-rehabilitation, and speech therapy are some of the options of treatment for Spinocerebellar Ataxia.

Individuals with SCA experience a progressive decline in motor coordination. Exercises and physical therapy focused on coordination and balance have helped improve or stop the progression of deteriorative effects of the disease on mobility. Gait or balance training programs form the crux of most treatment interventions. Here are some standard exercises one can do to improve functional movements.

Rotating bent knee:

Lie facing up with both knees bent, arms wide apart, and feet flat. Rotate both knees from one side to the other. Try to keep your back straight as your lower body moves from side to side. Repeat this 10 times.

This exercise focuses on the segmental movement of the lower extremities — hip, knee, ankle joint, bones of the thigh, leg, and foot.

Kneeling press-ups:

Kneel upright with arms at the side and slowly move to a lower kneeling position with the hip resting on the heels. Repeat this movement between upright and lowered positions 10 times.

This exercise helps improve strength and stability in the lower extremities and eases the effort to stand, sit, and get up from the floor.

Weight shifting:

Kneel with arms on the ground, facing the floor. Bring one arm forward to the shoulder line and lift the opposite-side leg up to the same length. Balance for a moment before lowering the arm and the leg. Attempt to complete 10 repetitions.

This exercise focuses on core stability and helps improve balance and coordination.

Balancing on heel and toes:

Stand upright with one foot in front of the other as if you are standing on a tightrope. The heel of the front leg should be touching the toes of your other leg. Stay steady in this position for up to half a minute. Switch between legs and repeat this exercise a few times.

This exercise intends to improve standing balance without additional support.

Standing without using arms:

Sit on the end of a chair and get up into a standing position without the use of arms. Try to use your leg muscles the maximum as you attempt to stand. Return to sitting on the chair and repeat this 10 times.

Balance required in basic functional movements such as sitting and standing improve with this exercise.

Weight shifting:

Sit upright on an exercise ball and slowly move the upper body from one side to the other shifting the weight of the upper body to each side. Similarly, shift your entire body weight from one side to the other standing by moving your hips, trunk, head, and shoulders.

This exercise helps improve balance and core stability.

Most treatments for Spinocerebellar Ataxia centers around specific exercise regimens prescribed based on individual needs. A significant improvement in the lifestyle of persons with Spinocerebellar Ataxia is achievable with intensive balance training programs. However, you must consult with your primary care provider or neurologist before starting standard exercise routines.