Late Onset Tay Sachs Disease - Conditions - Neurological - What We Treat

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Late onset Tay-Sachs disease (LOTS) is a chronic, progressive metabolic disorder caused by reduced levels of Hex-A enzyme in older children and adults, resulting in ataxia (lack of coordination), dysarthria (slurred speech) and muscle weakness. Late-onset Tay-Sachs (LOTS) disease is a rare form of Tay-Sachs disease. Tay-Sachs disease occurs in babies and young children who are born without the Hex A enzyme.

Causes of Late Onset Tay-Sachs disease

Late Onset Tay-Sachs is the rarest genetic disease that appears in people aged between 15 and 35 years and occurs when fatty compounds, called gangliosides, do not break down normally because the body produces too little of the enzyme Hex A. A build-up of gangliosides accumulates and damages brain and nerve cells, which affects a person's cognitive and physical function.

Above: Neurological physiotherapist assisting mobilisation exercises between the parallel bars

Diagnosis of Late Onset Tay-Sachs disease

Diagnosis of Late Onset Tay-Sachs disease is often difficult as the symptoms of the condition are often similar to other muscular or neurological disorders. Accurate diagnosis can be made through enzyme assay and DNA analysis.

What are the symptoms/effects of Late Onset Tay-Sachs disease?

Symptoms begin between adolescence and mid-30s and vary from person to person but may include:

Proximal (trunk) muscle weakness
Tremor
Unsteady gait
Ataxia(lack of coordination)
Muscle cramps
Fasiculations (muscle twitching)
Dysarthria (difficulty speaking)
Mood changes

Physiotherapy plays an important part in helping individuals with this condition manage their physical symptoms and improve their independence with daily activities. Physiotherapy treatment will depend on your current symptoms and needs.

Above: Neurological physiotherapist assisting mobility transfers using a pivot standing frame

Physiotherapy for Late Onset Tay-Sachs (LOTS)

At Physio.co.uk we provide specialised and individualised physiotherapy treatment for people with Late Onset Tay-Sachs. Our physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk understand that difficulty with mobility and self care can have a significant impact on you and those close to you.

Your physiotherapist at Physio.co.uk will initially assess your movement, muscle strength and gait to see how we can help maximise your potential. Physiotherapy treatment at Physio.co.uk will focus on:

Maximising muscle strength in the trunk making it easier for you to stand, get out of bed and balance whilst dressing
Maintaining joint range of movement and flexibility for as long as possible
Maximising mobility and gait pattern
Maximise balance in static and dynamic positions
Maximise fitness levels and endurance

Every person with this condition is different so treatment will be tailored to your particular needs. Physiotherapy treatment may include:

Improving postural stability in the trunk through passive and active movement
Muscle strength training
Activities to increase confidence when moving
Structured exercise programme to increase fitness levels and reduce muscle wasting
Pacing techniques to avoid fatigue
Advice about orthotic devices and walking aids if appropriate

Our physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk work closely with occupational therapists who can provide adjustments or equipment in the kitchen, bathroom or workspace. For more information, or to book an appointment please call 0330 088 7800.

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