Effects of a Supervised Rehabilitation Program on Disease Severity in Spastic Ataxias

IMPACT, a Supervised Rehabilitation Program for Spastic Ataxias: A Rater-blinded, Randomized Controlled Trial

Spastic ataxias are a group of diseases causing symptoms such as walking difficulties and balance impairments that lead to a high risk of falls. No pharmacological treatments exist to treat these diseases. Unfortunately, little effort is made to develop non-pharmacological treatments specific to spastic ataxias despite the detrimental impact of the disease on several aspects of an individual's life and the high cost of falls for society each year. The three objectives of this project are: 1) to determine the effect of a 12-week rehabilitation program on disease severity as compared with usual care for individuals with spastic ataxias; 2) to identify which factors can help (or not) the implementation of the program in the clinical settings ("reel world"); and 3) to explore the cost-benefits of IMPACT [rehabIlitation prograM for sPAstiC aTaxias]. The team has developed the program to specifically target symptoms present in these patients and was previously pilot-tested. Based on the results obtained in this pilot project, positive effects are expected concerning the disease severity of participants. The investigators want, with this project, provide to health care professionals an option to offer better-suited services to people living with spastic ataxia worldwide.

Inclusion Criteria:

• have a confirmed genetic diagnosis of ARSACS or SPG7
• be able to maintain standing position and to transfert
• be authorized by their treating neurologist
• speak French or English
• be able to give informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

• have active participation in a rehabilitation program (self-reported information)
• have another condition causing physical limitations
• be uncomfortable in a swimming pool
• be pregnant.