Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a type of neurological condition that causes one to lose the ability to move their muscles. This occurs because of a loss of nerve cells in the spinal cord and brainstem. Currently, there is no cure for the condition that can promise complete cure. However, there are various treatment options available to tackle the problems and symptoms that come with the condition. Some of these treatment options are as follows:

Diet help and feeding
While getting the right nutrients is important for people at any age, it is of utmost importance for children suffering from spinal muscular atrophy. Getting the right nutrition can help facilitate the child with healthy development and promises proper growth.

In case the child experiences difficulty in swallowing, a feeding tube may be required. One type of tube that can be used is the gastrostomy tube that is attached to the stomach directly through the skin of the stomach. A different type of tube can be used is the nasogastric tube which is passed through the nose and further moves down the throat.

Help with breathing
Spinal muscle atrophy can cause significant breathing problems. There are different treatment options available to help with this symptom. Some of the treatments are as follows:

• Suction machine
  This machine comprises a tube that would be inserted from the back of the throat. It helps by removing any mucus present in the throat, thereby facilitating breathing.
• Breathing exercises
  These exercises can help an individual strengthen their breathing muscles and ease cough. This can help improve breathing. In more severe cases, a special machine can be used to provide the patient with air with the help of a tube or a mask. In certain cases, vaccinations against pneumonia and flu are suggested to avoid falling sick from these conditions.

Additional equipment for assistance
A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can help to solve any problems associated with moving around. Some options under this treatment include:

• Splints or braces to support arms and legs
• Shoe inserts which can ease the process of walking
• Walking frames or wheelchair to help in mobility

Treatments for the associated spine problems
Scoliosis is a problem that children with SMA usually develop. This leads to the child having an unusually curved spine. To treat this condition, children can undergo a spinal surgery which would help in straightening the spine with the help of metal hooks and rods. These will further be fused with pieces of bone.

The other option is to get a back brace made especially to support the affected person’s back and encourage the growth of the spine in the right way.

In addition to these, two medications have been approved by the FDA to slow the progression of the condition. More treatments are in the pipeline to be approved and hopefully can provide better treatment.