Physiotherapy Assessment and Treatment in Pediatric Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Overview

Physiotherapy Assessment and Treatment in Pediatric Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a comprehensive online course designed for physiotherapists working with infants and children affected by SMA, a rare genetic neuromuscular disorder caused by mutations in the SMN1 gene. This course provides an up-to-date exploration of SMA’s etiology, phenotypes, and rapidly evolving therapeutic landscape, emphasizing evidence-based physiotherapy strategies that optimize function, independence, and quality of life.

Participants will gain insights into disease-modifying therapies such as Nusinersen (Spinraza®), Risdiplam (Evrysdi®), and Onasemnogene abeparvovec (Zolgensma®), and how these treatments reshape clinical expectations. The course highlights sensitive outcome measurement, goal-directed therapy, play-based interventions, family involvement, and transition planning — all within a multidisciplinary framework essential for holistic pediatric care.

Learning Objectives

By completing this course, participants will be able to:

1. Explain the genetic and molecular basis of SMA and its implications for physiotherapy care.

2. Describe the types and clinical trajectories of SMA and identify early indicators requiring intervention.

3. Integrate disease-modifying therapies into physiotherapy planning while understanding their mechanisms, administration, and limitations.

4. Apply sensitive, standardized outcome measures tailored to functional levels (non-sitters, sitters, walkers) to track progress effectively.

5. Develop goal-directed, individualized physiotherapy plans, incorporating stretching, strengthening, postural control, mobility, and assistive technology.

6. Utilize developmentally appropriate play and family-centered approaches to enhance therapy adherence and quality of life.

7. Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams and plan transitions from pediatric to adult care, supporting long-term independence and wellbeing.

Audience

This course is ideal for:

• Licensed pediatric physiotherapists and physical therapists involved in neuromuscular care

• Clinical educators seeking to update SMA management strategies

• Healthcare professionals on multidisciplinary teams caring for children with SMA

• Clinicians interested in continuing professional development (CPD) and evidence-based pediatric interventions

About the Presenters

Silvana Echeverri, BSc MPT
Pediatric physiotherapist, owner at Cambie Kids Physio, and clinical evaluator for neuromuscular disorders in research trials.

Niam Cushen
Pediatric physiotherapist at BC Children’s Hospital specializing in SMA care and pediatric ICU physiotherapy.

Angelina Woof
Associate Head of Clinical Education, Department of Physical Therapy at UBC, with expertise in pediatric clinical practice and rare disease research.

Why This Course Matters

The therapeutic landscape for SMA is rapidly evolving. Disease-modifying treatments are changing the natural history of the disorder, extending survival, and enabling variable functional outcomes. For physiotherapists, this means moving beyond traditional supportive care to proactive, individualized interventions that maximize functional potential.

Early diagnosis, sensitive outcome measurement, and goal-directed, evidence-based therapy are essential for optimizing motor function, independence, and quality of life. Incorporating play, family engagement, and community-based supports further enhances outcomes. This course equips clinicians with practical tools to navigate this dynamic clinical environment and deliver high-impact care.

Course Highlights

• Comprehensive Coverage: Etiology, SMA types, current treatment approaches, and early intervention strategies

• Therapeutic Focus: Stretching, strengthening, postural control, mobility training, and use of assistive devices

• Outcome Measurement: Sensitive, standardized tools like CHOP INTEND, HFMSE, RULM, and PROMs

• Family and Play Integration: Developmentally appropriate play, caregiver education, and engagement

• Multidisciplinary Approach: Coordination among physiotherapists, neurologists, orthopedists, occupational therapists, and community providers

• Future-Focused Care: Transition planning to adult care, adaptive strategies, and long-term quality of life