Therapies for ataxias.

Ataxia can originate from many genetic defects, but also from nongenetic causes. To be able to provide treatment, the first step is to establish the right diagnosis. Once the cause of the ataxia is defined, some specific treatments may be available.

Ataxia is a movement disorder resulting from the incoordination of movements and inadequate postural control, presented in balance and walking disturbances. It has three subcategories, which are sensory, cerebellar and vestibular ataxia. Some researchers regard frontal ataxia as the 4th category. Mixed ataxia involves symptoms of at least two basic types of ataxia together. Different clinical symptoms, interference of different neurological structures and different diseases play role in the formation of each ataxia type. Since ataxia is resistant to medical treatments, physical treatment applications are of major importance. Physical therapy applications involve proprioceptive training, balance exercises, stabilization techniques regarding the extremity ataxia and vestibular exercises for accomplishing functional improvement and restoration of the ataxic patient. Compensatory applications employ supportive devices.

For example, the nongenetic ataxias that arise from vitamin deficiencies can improve following treatment. In most cases, however, therapies do not cure the disease and are purely symptomatic.

Physiotherapy and occupational therapy are effective in all type of ataxias and often remain the most efficient treatment option for these patients to maximize their quality of life.

Martineau L, Noreau A, Dupré N. Therapies for ataxias. Current treatment options in neurology 2014 07;16(7):300.