SPG 4 Denovo

When it comes to treating spasticity in SPG4, it’s not just about any physical therapy. It’s about a highly specific approach that focuses on opposing muscle groups and maintaining muscle length.

Why Specificity and Muscle Length Matter

SPG4 often leads to muscle imbalances that cause certain muscles to become overly tight while their opposing muscles weaken. Physical therapy must be tailored to strengthen those weaker, opposing muscle groups to restore balance. But it’s not just about strengthening; it’s also about preserving the length of the muscles.

Thinking Long-Term: Preparing for Future Treatments

Why is maintaining muscle length so important? Because in the future, as treatments like gene therapy or CRISPR advance, we want to ensure that once the underlying genetic issue is addressed, the muscles are still functional and able to respond. If we lose muscle length over time, then even when a breakthrough therapy comes along, the muscles might not function as they should.

Talk to Your Therapist

So it’s not just about “doing PT.” It’s about doing the right PT, focused on opposing muscle groups and maintaining muscle length. That way, when the day comes that a genetic fix is available, the muscles are ready to move and function as intended.