Treatment of ataxia depends on the underlying cause to disease. For example, ataxia caused by a metabolic disorder is treated by appropriate medication and one power control.

benefits walking aids, such as canes or walkers allow people with the condition to maintain their independence. The physiotherapy (= physiotherapy) helps maintain muscle strength and prolong the use of arms and legs. THE’occupational therapy helps improve activities of daily living, for example dressing or eating. THE’speech helps with speech and swallowing.

There is no medicine that can cure hereditary ataxia. Several symptoms and complications can be treated on an individual basis. Orthopedic problems such as foot deformities and scoliosis can be corrected using corsets or a surgery.

Friedreich’s Ataxie

CATENA® is the first drug approved in Canada to treat Friedreich’s Ataxia. It contains idebenone (an analogue of coenzyme Q10), a compound believed to act on the production of energy in cells and on the protection of cells damaged by disease. According to the most recent studies^1-4 , idebenone would not improve ataxia and neurological symptoms, but may reduce heart enlargement, one of the symptoms seen in people with this disease.

This medication is also prescribed in France (SOVRIMA®) by neurologists from certain university hospital centers.

Complementary approaches

Feldenkrais Method. It is about a somatic education aiming to become aware of its movement habits and to increase their amplitude. Individual or group lessons use slow movements and without efforts that promoteease, comfort andefficiency of movements. The Feldenkrais method helps increase flexibility and coordination. It would improve the quality of life of patients with musculoskeletal disorders. However, no study has shown its efficacy in patients with a form of ataxia.