Neurorehabilitation for spinocerebellar degeneration

Abstract

It remains to be elucidated whether there is a use- or dose-dependent effect of rehabilitative intervention on impairment and disability of spinocerebellar degeneration since the disease progressively damages cerebellar structure that plays a crucial role in motor learning. Moreover there is a trade-off between functional improvement after rehabilitation and functional deterioration due to disease progression. Recent clinical trials from Germany and Japan have demonstrated that comprehensive intensive rehabilitation focusing on balance function have immediate and lasting effect up to 1 year on ataxia and gait disorder in patients with spinocerebellar degeneration. For sustained gain after the intensive rehabilitation, customized attempts to boost patients' daily activities according to their ability appears to be important.