Symptoms of Ataxia
Reviewed: Dr. Gromatzky
2. Weakened Muscles
Many patients with Friedreich’s ataxia will find that their legs get gradually weaker over time. Some may even need to use a wheelchair after 1 or 2 decades as they no longer have the strength to walk by themselves. It can also lead to other problems, as scoliosis.
Scoliosis is an unnatural curvature of the spine. This can be causing by weakened leg muscles and also a weakening of the muscles in the torso. It is often quite a disfiguring symptom, making it even more difficult for the patient to move around unaided. Corrective surgery may be able to help in some cases.
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