Symptoms of type 2 include deformity, motor delay, enlarged calf muscles and tremors in the fingers. Proximal muscles that lie closest to the spine are affected with weakness first; the legs will become weak before the arms. Children with type 2 SMA will never be able to walk without assistance. The good news is that the child with SMA will most likely be able to perform tasks with their arms and hands, such as keyboarding, feeding, etc. It has been observed that children with SMA type 2 are very intelligent. Physical therapy, assistive devices and power wheelchairs can go a long way toward contributing to a meaningful life for children with SMA type 2.
Watch Out for 2 Main Problems with SMA Type 2
- Weak respiratory muscles can cause infections
- Scoliosis and/or kyphosis may develop due to weak spinal muscles.
