Is there a cure for hereditary spastic paraplegia?
There are no specific treatments to prevent, slow, or reverse HSP. Symptomatic treatments used for spasticity, such as muscle relaxants, are sometimes helpful. Regular physical therapy is important for muscle strength and to preserve range of motion. There are no specific treatments to prevent, slow, or reverse HSP.
Can a person with spastic paraplegia walk?
This is because it’s difficult for them to bend their toes upwards as a result of having weak hip muscles. Some people may eventually need to use a walking cane or a wheelchair to help them get around. Others may not need to use any type of mobility equipment.
Is Hereditary spastic paraplegia a rare disease?
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP) is a group of rare, inherited neurological disorders. Their primary symptoms are progressive spasticity and weakness of the leg and hip muscles. Researchers estimate that some 90 different types of HSP exist; the genetic causes are known for about fifty.
Is Hereditary spastic paraplegia neurodegenerative?
Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is a genetically heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative diseases characterized by progressive spasticity and weakness at the lower limbs. Clinically, HSP has been classified as “pure” (or “uncomplicated”) and “complex” (or “complicated”) forms (Parodi et al., 2017).
Does spasticity get worse over time?
Keep moving. Muscle spasticity will tend to get worse the less you move. This is especially true if the muscles become weaker.
When does hereditary spastic paraplegia start?
Symptoms of HSP may begin at any age, from infancy to older than 60 years. If symptoms begin during the teenage years or later, then spastic gait disturbance usually progresses over many years.
How is HSP inherited?
As with all inherited disorders, the HSPs are due to gene mutations. Each genetic type of HSP is due to a mutation in a specific “HSP gene”. For example, mutations in SPG3A/atlastin, SPG4/spastin, and SPG7/paraplegin genes cause SPG3A, SPG4, and SPG7 HSP, respectively.