Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)

Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic neuromuscular condition that affects the central and peripheral nervous systems, as well as voluntary (skeletal) muscle movement.

The condition is usually diagnosed in infancy. With appropriate treatment, children with SMA can grow and develop into adulthood.

New therapies, including gene replacement and disease-modifying treatments for SMA types 1 and 2, make early diagnosis essential for improving outcomes.

Spinal muscular atrophy

How is the name derived?

The spinal cord contains most of the nerve cells that control muscles, which is why the condition is called spinal muscular atrophy. In SMA, these nerve cells fail to transmit signals to the muscles, leading to reduced muscle activity.

The term atrophy refers to the shrinking of muscles that occurs when they are not stimulated or used.

There are several types of SMA. You can find out more here: MDA – Types of SMA

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Medical Alert Cards

Muscular Dystrophy Queensland has created condition-specific alert cards for the most diagnosed muscle-wasting conditions.

These cards mean that people living with muscle wasting conditions and their families will have the security of knowing they can easily inform emergency health care professionals of the vital and specific issues that affect children and adults with these conditions.

Order our Medical Alert Card for Spinal Muscular Atrophy type 2 today

Order your Medical Alert Cards

Become a Community Member

By becoming a registered Community Member of Muscular Dystrophy Queensland you will be able to gain access to relevant supports.

At Muscular Dystrophy Queensland we don’t see you as just a client. You are a valued member of our community. We’re here to support you through every stage of life. We’d like to keep in touch with you, to understand your needs as they evolve and provide you with ongoing access to our range of services. And so, we ask you to register with us.

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