Olivia Ponto Cerebellum Atrophy - Are there any cures?

[j_nel]

Hi there, any help would be greatly appreciated.

My dad has been diagnosed with Olivia Ponto Cerebellum Atrophy for 9 years. His symptoms include imbalance while walking, very slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing.

We've seen a lot of specialists around the USA and have only heard only bad news, there is no cure for this disease. My parents have now made 2 trips to China to seek alternative medicines (herbal medicine, acupuncture, laser treatment, oils. etc.) These alternatives have only slowed the progression of this disease. But after 9 years, my dads quality of life has drastically decreased. If anyone knows of any treatment that will stop or reverse the progression of this disease it would be GREATLY appreciated.

[centrevillevirginian]

My mother-in-law nancy Olson had this disorder.  It took years to diagnose her, and then she never really did get any help.  She never drove a car and always did menial labor stuff to earn a living.  Finally died of a stroke (from smoking).  The best you can do, is follow your DR's instructions, and read all the material you can on this disorder.

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

I am not the right person to ask about exercises. You will need to see a physical therapist for this. But I can say that he should exercise joint by joint. Let's say the knee joint. Two actions, flex and extend the leg, are necessary. And these actions should be against some pressure.

Regards

[j_nel]

We are trying to keep him walking as long as possible, but it looks like he will need a wheelchair by next year.

Are there any exercises you would recommend to slow down the degeneration of his legs and other muscles?

[Abhijeet Deshmukh, MD]

Hello.

This is a relatively unusual disorder. There is unfortunately no treatment that can halt or reverse the progression of the disease. Does he need the wheelchair ?

I wish I could give more valuable information.

Regards