How To Treat Friedreich's Ataxia

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy programs are one of the core components of managing the symptom progression of Friedreich's ataxia. Studies have shown physical therapy programs generally provide positive results for patients because they improve overall physical fitness. A physical therapist will create a treatment program that will help prolong the patient's motor function for a longer period. Treatment also focuses on making sure the patient has the highest possible quality of life even as the disease progresses. Another part of the goal is to minimize pain and deformity. Before beginning treatment, each patient will undergo a thorough evaluation with their physical therapist. This evaluation includes an understanding of the condition, the patient's physical function, balance, posture, spinal alignment, range of motion, muscle flexibility, strength, mobility, coordination, endurance, gait, and cardiovascular activity response. In addition to creating a plan for ongoing physical therapy sessions, the physical therapist will likely create an individualized exercise program to do at home. This plan will be revised about once annually on average.

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