How to manage life with SMA

You may use a range of supportive approaches to help manage daily activities and maintain quality of life. These approaches can vary based on your age, individual needs, and local care practices

Physical therapy

Physical therapy can help support posture and keep joints limber.1

Occupational therapy

Working with an occupational therapist can improve the ability to perform daily tasks. 

Assistive devices

Equipment like orthopedic braces, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs can help with mobility. Learn more about helpful equipment here.2

Speech therapy

Speech therapy can help improve difficulties with speaking and swallowing.1

Nutrition

Nutrition can play an important role in overall health and wellbeing. Talk to your doctor or care team about a nutrition plan that works best for you to potentially help with improved growth and wellbeing.1 Learn more↗ from the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) about managing nutrition. 

Additional medical interventions

Using a feeding tube can help provide nutrients if swallowing is too difficult or dangerous, and ventilation devices can provide support for breathing issues.

Helpful tools

your appointment your voice
Your appointment, your voice 

As you move toward taking a more active role in your healthcare, having the right tools can make appointments feel more manageable and empowering.
 
Your Appointment, Your Voice is a practical guide designed to help you prepare for your healthcare appointments, speak up with confidence, and connect care decisions to your wider life goals, one conversation at a time.

Download PDF

"If you commit to something that you really love, then you can achieve it. It may look different or require adaptations, but you're still reaching the same goal.”

- George T, SMA Patient Advocate, SMA Type 2

REFERENCES

  1. Song W and Ke X. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2025;20(1):352
  2. SpinalMuscularAtrophy.net Editorial Team. SMA Assistive Equipment. Available at: https://spinalmuscularatrophy.net/assistive-equipment. Accessed August 2026.

Other content you may be interested in:

Navigating your SMA journey

Explore practical tools and resources to help you navigate everyday challenges, important conversations, and growth towards greater independence.

Learn more
Caregiver corner

A dedicated space for caregivers supporting young people with SMA, including guidance on encouraging independence, building confidence, and taking care of themselves too.

Learn more
Community support

Discover resources and community support through our patient advocacy partner, dedicated to helping you feel informed and connected while living with SMA.

Learn more

Sitemap

This website provides general educational and support information for people living with SMA and their caregivers. It is not intended to provide medical advice, replace discussions with healthcare professionals, or promote any specific treatment. Always consult your healthcare professional for any questions regarding your condition or its management.

Use of website is governed by the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Copyright © 2026 Novartis Pharma AG All rights reserved.

08/26 FA-11697085