Find in Library

<h4>Purpose</h4>This single-arm prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and utility of in-home body weight support harness system (BWSS) use in children treated for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).<h4>Methods</h4>Individuals with 2 or 3 copies of SMN2 who received pharmacotherapeutic treatment, had head control, and weight <50lbs were enrolled. Families were provided a BWSS and documented use. Motor outcome assessments were completed at baseline, month 3 and month 6. Families provided feedback in an end of study survey.<h4>Results</h4>All 32 participants (2.9 (SD 1.9) yrs), improved or remained stable on all outcomes. Average reported frequency of use was 4.1(2.3) hrs/week. Controlling for other covariates, frequency of use explained over 70% of the variability in change scores. Family feedback was overwhelmingly positive.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Use of in-home BWSS is a safe, feasible and useful option to increase exercise dosage after treatment in SMA and may help optimize motor abilities.<h4>Trial registration</h4>Study registered with: Clinicaltrials.gov Clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT05715749.