Spinal muscular atrophy type II (intermediary) and III (Kugelberg-Welander). Evolution of 50 patients with physiotherapy and hydrotherapy in a swimming pool

Rehabilitation Strategies for Patients With Spinal Muscular Atrophy in the Era of Disease-Modifying Therapy

The impact of disease-modifying therapy ranges from cure to no impact with a wide range of intermediates. In cases where the intermediate group reaches a plateau after the acquisition of some muscle strength, it is necessary to set a functional level appropriate for increased motor power and establish a long-term exercise plan to maintain it. As the disease status stabilizes and the life span increases, early nonsurgical interventions are required, such as using a standing frame to prevent joint contracture, applying a spinal brace at the early stage of scoliosis, and maintaining sitting postures that exaggerate lumbar lordosis. In cases where scoliosis and hip displacement occur and progress even after conservative managements are implemented, early referral to surgery should be considered. Oromotor activity and swallowing function are influenced not only by the effects of disease-modifying drugs, but also by post-birth experience and training. Therefore, although the feeding tube cannot be removed, it is necessary to make efforts to simulate the infant feeding development while maintaining partial oral feeding. Since the application period of non-invasive ventilators has increased, it has become more important to prevent long-term complications such as facial abrasion, skin allergy, orthodontic deformities, and maxillary flattening caused by the interface. Dual ventilator mode or interface can also be utilized.

[Clinical efficacy of nusinersen sodium in the treatment of children with spinal muscular atrophy]

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the efficacy and safety of nusinersen sodium in the treatment of children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of 50 children with 5q SMA who received nusinersen sodium treatment and multidisciplinary treatment management in Shanxi Children's Hospital from February 2022 to February 2024.

RESULTS

Compared with the baseline data, 67% (8/12), 74% (35/47), and 74% (35/47) of the SMA children had a clinically significant improvement in the scores of Philadelphia Infant Test of Neuromuscular Disorders, Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale Expanded, and Revised Upper Limb Module, respectively, and the distance of 6-minute walking test increased from 207.00 (179.00, 281.50) meters to 233.00 (205.25, 287.50) meters (P<0.05) after nusinersen sodium treatment. Of all 50 children with SMA, 24 (48%) showed good tolerability after administration, with no significant or persistent abnormalities observed in 2 034 laboratory test results, and furthermore, there were no serious or immunological adverse events related to the treatment. After treatment, there was a significant change in forced vital capacity as a percentage of the predicted value in 27 children with restrictive ventilatory dysfunction, as well as a significant change in the level of 25-(OH) vitamin D in 15 children with vitamin D deficiency (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

For children with SMA, treatment with nusinersen sodium can continuously improve the response rates of motor function scales, with good tolerability and safety.

Real-World Data on Access to Standards of Care for People With Spinal Muscular Atrophy in the UK

Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is characterized by muscle atrophy and weakness and has an incidence of 1:11. 000 live births which projects an estimated population in the UK of 650-1,300 affected patients. Standards of Care (SoC) were updated in 2017 and they have been widely adopted as a reference for implementation of care in SMA across the globe. The effectiveness of implementation and adherence to these standards across different countries is unclear. The aim of this study is to describe the experience of individuals with SMA regarding their care in the UK. An online anonymised survey was sent out via patient organizations, the UK SMA Patient Registry, professional networks, and social media to reach across the UK. The survey captured demographic profile, professionals involved in a patient's care, Interventions and access to mobility aids and home adaptations. Participants responded about their access to services and to rate how important each professional and intervention was for their health and wellbeing. One hundred and twenty-eight responses were collected with a median age of 34 years (1-81). Seventy-three percent of participants were adults and 60% men. Overall good access to neurologist (>90%) but limited to nurse specialist (48%) and physiotherapist (57%). Good access to respiratory support was reported but limited for interventions for positioning and bracing and exercise. This survey highlights that access to certain professionals for people with SMA is limited in the UK. Striking differences were noted between pediatric and adult populations. Limited access to care were regularly reported, with half of the study population consistently not accessing full multidisciplinary care. Access to interventions for contracture management were recorded to have significant limitations. Mobility aids and home adaptations are widely available and were also reported as the most valued interventions. Access to nutritional support or speech and language therapy appears only to be available for a small proportion of the participants. Access to respiratory care was good especially in severe forms of SMA. We found pockets of good practice in the UK that align with the SoC. However, access is not equal for adults and children and access to certain professionals is significantly limited.

Exploring the use of Halliwick aquatic therapy in the rehabilitation of children with disabilities: A scoping review

INTRODUCTION

Halliwick aquatic therapy is a rehabilitation intervention that is gaining popularity for people with disabilities. This scoping review provides an overview on the state of research about the impact of Halliwick aquatic therapy for children with disabilities.

METHODS

Four electronic databases were searched to obtain research on the use of the Halliwick method for paediatric rehabilitation: Medline, CINAHL, Embase and PsycINFO. Potential citations were first screened by title and abstract, and full texts were then examined on the second round of screening. We analyzed the demographic details of their study population, how therapy was implemented (e.g., lesson frequency or structure), and what measurements were used, with measured variables mapped onto the domains of the framework for health of the WHO's International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

RESULTS

Twenty-four publications met the inclusion criteria for this review. The majority of research included children with cerebral palsy (n = 12) or autism spectrum disorder (n = 8), with very few studies including other disabilities (n = 5). There was a wide variation in the number of lessons per study and how each lesson was structured. Fourteen studies lacked a control group. Looking at ICF domains, all 24 articles measured variables pertaining to body structure and functions, four looked for changes in performance of daily activities, four into ability to participate in social roles, and seven into changes in personal factors.

CONCLUSION

There is no consensus on how the Halliwick method should be structured for participants, leaving a gap for future research on programme implementation. To shift our viewpoint beyond what a disability prevents to what one's level of health and functioning allows, it is important to broaden the scope of research into the other ICF domains.

Filling the gaps in knowledge translation: Physical therapy recommendations for individuals with spinal muscular atrophy compared to standard of care guidelines

This study describes the current landscape of physical therapy practice recommendations in the United States for children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and their relationship to current SMA standard of care (SMA-SOC) guidelines. Pediatric physical therapists were surveyed to determine their knowledge of SMA-SOC guidelines, and the type, duration and frequency of intervention they recommend for children with SMA, as well as perceived barriers and facilitators to progress in physical therapy. Physical therapists recommend five key intervention areas for individuals with SMA; however discrepancies exist between the SOC recommended intervention parameters and respondents' reported frequency and duration of recommendations. After individuals with SMA initiated disease modifying pharmacotherapies, a majority of physical therapist respondents recommended increases in both frequency and duration of interventions. Nearly all respondents reported that familiarity with SOC guidelines was beneficial to their practice. The primary facilitator to progress was parent/caregiver support, while the primary barrier was limited access to resources. Variation in practice exists regarding care for those with SMA, particularly in the areas of frequency and duration of specific interventions. These findings can guide educational initiatives, identify future research needs and further inform SMA-SOC and best-practice rehabilitation management.

Impact of Aquatic Exercise on Respiratory Outcomes and Functional Activities in Children with Neuromuscular Disorders: Findings from an Open-Label and Prospective Preliminary Pilot Study

Neuromuscular disorders (NMD) lead to the progressive loss of motor and respiratory functions and a decline in daily activities and participation. We aimed to evaluate respiratory changes and functional outcomes in children attending an aquatic therapy program. Eleven patients diagnosed with NMD (4-18 years, Vignos scale 1-9) were involved in a 10-week aquatic exercise program. The ventilation variables were: peak cough flow, volumes (forced expiratory volume in one second-FEV₁ and inspiratory volume) and respiratory pressures to evaluate strength and oxygen saturation (O₂ sat). Functional skills were measured in the aquatic environment (Water Orientation Test Alyn 1) and on dry land, (Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory), together with quality of life (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory). Our evaluation included several 2 × 6 mixed-model repeated measures analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) with time (baseline, post 1 session, pre-post at five weeks and pre-post at 10 weeks). Important improvements in functional skills were observed in and out of the water and children under the age of 11 displayed a significant difference for inspirational volume (p = 0.002) and O₂ sat (p = 0.029). Clinical, statistically insignificant changes were found for peak cough flow and expiratory pressures values after aquatic exercise. These results may support a relationship between aquatic exercise in NMD, respiratory outcomes and functional activities in water and on land.

The effect of two different aerobic training modalities in a child with spinal muscular atrophy type II: a case report

This study examined the effect of two different aerobic training modalities in a boy with spinal muscular atrophy type II. Motor functions were measured with Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale (HFMS) and Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM). Spirometry was utilized for assessing pulmonary functions and PedsQL 3.0 Neuromuscular module was utilized for quality of life of child. Ergometer training was applied 3 times per week for the duration of 12 weeks. After 6 weeks of wash-out period, aquatherapy was applied for twice a week for the duration of 12 weeks. HFMS and GMFM scores, and pulmonary functions of the child and quality of life scores of his parents were improved during both modalities. These improvements were largely maintained during 1-year follow-up. This study showed that both modalities had similar effects on our case’s pulmonary, motor functions and quality life of himself and parents. It will be a guide for researchers working in the area of children with neuromuscular disorders regarding plan and diversification of therapy program.

Physical exercise training for type 3 spinal muscular atrophy

BACKGROUND

Physical exercise training might improve muscle and cardiorespiratory function in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Optimization of aerobic capacity or other resources in residual muscle tissue through exercise may counteract the muscle deterioration that occurs secondary to motor neuron loss and inactivity in SMA. There is currently no evidence synthesis available on physical exercise training in people with SMA type 3.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of physical exercise training on functional performance in people with SMA type 3, and to identify any adverse effects.

SEARCH METHODS

On 8 May 2018, we searched the Cochrane Neuromuscular Specialised Register, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, AMED, and LILACS. On 25 April 2018 we searched NHSEED, DARE, and ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO ICTRP for ongoing trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs lasting at least 12 weeks that compared physical exercise training (strength training, aerobic exercise training, or both) to placebo, standard or usual care, or another type of non-physical intervention for SMA type 3. Participants were adults and children from the age of five years with a diagnosis of SMA type 3 (Kugelberg-Welander syndrome), confirmed by genetic analysis.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methodological procedures.

MAIN RESULTS

We included one RCT that studied the effects of a six-month, home-based, combined muscle strength and recumbent cycle ergometry training program versus usual care in 14 ambulatory people with SMA. The age range of the participants was between 10 years and 48 years. The study was evaluator-blinded, but personnel and participants could not be blinded to the intervention, which placed the results at a high risk of bias. Participants performed strength training as prescribed, but 50% of the participants did not achieve the intended aerobic exercise training regimen. The trial used change in walking distance on the six-minute walk test as a measure of function; a minimal detectable change is 24.0 m. The change from baseline to six months' follow-up in the training group (9.4 m) was not detectably different from the change in the usual care group (-0.14 m) (mean difference (MD) 9.54 m, 95% confidence interval (CI) -83.04 to 102.12; N = 12). Cardiopulmonary exercise capacity, assessed by the change from baseline to six months' follow-up in peak oxygen uptake (VO2max) was similar in the training group (-0.12 mL/kg/min) and the usual care group (-1.34 mL/kg/min) (MD 1.22 mL/kg/min, 95% CI -2.16 to 4.6; N = 12). A clinically meaningful increase in VO2max is 3.5 mL/kg/min.The trial assessed function on the Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale - Expanded (HFMSE), which has a range of possible scores from 0 to 66, with an increase of 3 or more points indicating clinically meaningful improvement. The HFMSE score in the training group increased by 2 points from baseline to six months' follow-up, with no change in the usual care group (MD 2.00, 95% CI -2.06 to 6.06; N = 12). The training group showed a slight improvement in muscle strength, expressed as the manual muscle testing (MMT) total score, which ranges from 28 (weakest) to 280 (strongest). The change from baseline in MMT total score was 6.8 in the training group compared to -5.14 in the usual care group (MD 11.94, 95% CI -3.44 to 27.32; N = 12).The trial stated that training had no statistically significant effects on fatigue and quality of life. The certainty of evidence for all outcomes was very low because of study limitations and imprecision. The study did not assess the effects of physical exercise training on physical activity levels. No study-related serious adverse events or adverse events leading to withdrawal occurred, but we cannot draw wider conclusions from this very low-certainty evidence.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

It is uncertain whether combined strength and aerobic exercise training is beneficial or harmful in people with SMA type 3, as the quality of evidence is very low. We need well-designed and adequately powered studies using protocols that meet international standards for the development of training interventions, in order to improve our understanding of the exercise response in people with SMA type 3 and eventually develop exercise guidelines for this condition.

What areas of functioning are influenced by aquatic physiotherapy? Experiences of parents of children with cerebral palsy

OBJECTIVES

To explore the experiences regarding aquatic physiotherapy among parents of children with cerebral palsy and to identify a list of relevant intervention categories for aquatic physiotherapy treatments.

METHODS

We conducted semi-structured interviews and focus groups using the components of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as a frame of reference to explore and code experiences regarding aquatic physiotherapy. A non-probabilistic purposive sampling strategy was used. Content analysis methods and ICF linking processes were used to analyze data.

RESULTS

From the parents' perspective (n = 34), both the Body Functions and Activities and Participation components were mainly influenced by aquatic physiotherapy. Also, parents described Environmental Factors acting as barriers affecting progress during therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Parents identified a wide range of categories influenced by aquatic physiotherapy. Social and contextual aspects were highlighted, as well as a series of changes related to the illness as a result of treatment.

Diagnosis and management of spinal muscular atrophy: Part 1: Recommendations for diagnosis, rehabilitation, orthopedic and nutritional care

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a severe neuromuscular disorder due to a defect in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene. Its incidence is approximately 1 in 11,000 live births. In 2007, an International Conference on the Standard of Care for SMA published a consensus statement on SMA standard of care that has been widely used throughout the world. Here we report a two-part update of the topics covered in the previous recommendations. In part 1 we present the methods used to achieve these recommendations, and an update on diagnosis, rehabilitation, orthopedic and spinal management; and nutritional, swallowing and gastrointestinal management. Pulmonary management, acute care, other organ involvement, ethical issues, medications, and the impact of new treatments for SMA are discussed in part 2.

Identification of intervention categories for aquatic physical therapy in pediatrics using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-Children and Youth: a global expert survey

OBJECTIVE

To identify intervention categories encountered by physical therapists working in aquatic therapy with disabled children, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health-Children and Youth (ICF-CY).

METHODS

Aquatic physical therapists were asked to describe concepts related to the functioning of disabled children and their contextual factors. Data were collected in three rounds using the Delphi technique. All answers were translated ('linked') to the ICF-CY and analyzed to determine the degree of consensus.

RESULTS

Answers were linked and organized into four diagnostic groups. Overall, in the four groups, 41 Body Functions, 8 Body Structures, 36 Activities and Participation, and 6 Environmental Factors categories were identified as intervention targets. In addition, 8 Environmental Factors that influence aquatic physical therapy were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the variety of intervention categories available to aquatic physical therapists when treating children in the water.

Physical therapy services received by individuals with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)

PURPOSE

The consensus statement for standard of care in SMA recommends multidisciplinary medical care including physical therapy (PT) services. To date there are no reports regarding the implementation of these recommendations and the type of care or services received by individuals with SMA. The purpose of this study is to describe the PT services received by individuals with SMA.

METHODS

Interviews were conducted with patients or their caregivers at the Pediatric Neuromuscular Clinical Research (PNCR) Network sites from October 2011 to September 2012. Questions included information about clinical status of the patient, sociodemographic profile of the patient or caregiver, and PT services received in the past year, including the setting, frequency, duration and type of PT, and therapies administered by caregivers.

RESULTS

Eighty-six percent of 105 participants reported receiving PT services, some in multiple settings: 62% in the neuromuscular clinic, 38% at school, 34% at home, and 13% in an outpatient clinic. Greater frequency of PT services received was associated with younger age and inability to walk, but not SMA type.

CONCLUSION

This is the first multicenter study documenting PT services received by patients with SMA. Further research is needed to better understand the impact of PT services on the natural history of SMA.

Exercise in neuromuscular disease

In this review, we present an overview of the role of exercise in neuromuscular disease (NMD). We demonstrate that despite the different pathologies in NMDs, exercise is beneficial, whether aerobic/endurance or strength/resistive training, and we explore whether this benefit has a similar mechanism to that of healthy subjects. We discuss further areas for study, incorporating imaginative and novel approaches to training and its assessment in NMD. We conclude by suggesting ways to improve future trials by avoiding previous methodological flaws and drawbacks in this field.

An aquatic physical therapy program at a pediatric rehabilitation hospital: a case series

PURPOSE

The purpose of this case series is to describe the implementation of an aquatic physical therapy (PT) program at a pediatric hospital and to document improvements in participants' abilities after PT intervention.

METHODS

Four patients with cerebral palsy, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or Prader-Willi syndrome participated in aquatic and land-based PT intervention. Three of the patients had orthopedic conditions which required limited weight-bearing or low-joint impact during motor activities. A wide range of outcomes were used to assess changes in participation, activity, and body function. When available, minimal detectable change and minimal important difference values were used to interpret data.

RESULTS

Clinically significant improvements were documented in functional mobility, walking endurance, range of motion, muscle strength, and/or pain reduction for all 4 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Aquatic PT used as an adjunct to land-based PT interventions may be effective in improving outcomes in patients with physical disabilities.