What Are The Treatments And Types Of Spinal Muscular Dystrophy?

Type 4

Type 4 may also be referred to as adult-onset spinal muscular atrophy. It appears as if symptoms of this type present after adolescence. The most common time looks to be in the patient's twenties or thirties, though in their late teens may be possible. Most doctors seem to diagnose patients between thirty-five and forty years old. Research seems to indicate that patients with this form have either four or six SMN2 gene copies. This appears to be why their symptoms will not develop when they are children. The gene copies should compensate for the mutations that trigger this condition. These copies may also help lessen the physical effects of this disease.

Similar to the other types, patients may start experiencing mild muscle weakness in their legs and hips. This weakness can progress to their arms and shoulders. There appears to be a wide range of severity in this form. Some individuals may be able to walk short distances. They may need to use a mobility aid occasionally. However, others may need to use a wheelchair as they can lose the ability to walk.

Continue reading to discover potential treatments next.