We have moved! As of Monday 14 October 2024, Uplift Exercise Physiology is located at Unit 5/56 Industrial Drive Mayfield NSW 2304. The new clinic is more than twice the size of our former clinic, has multiple rooms, more and newer equipment, increased privacy, and significantly improved amenities. We can’t wait to welcome you to our new and improved space. Note: there is heaps of parking on Industrial Drive, or Accessible Parking via George Street. Team Uplift!

We are moving! The final day of services at Uplift’s current clinic will be 11 October 2024. From Monday 14 October, Uplift will relocate to Unit 5/56 Industrial Drive Mayfield NSW 2304. The new clinic is more than twice the size, has multiple rooms, more and newer equipment, increased privacy, and significantly improved amenities. We can’t wait to welcome you to our new and improved space. Team Uplift!
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Spinocerebellar Ataxia, why exercise is beneficial and how an Exercise Physiologist can help.

Spinocerebellar Ataxia’s are a group of neurodegenerative, genetic conditions that gradually impact an individual’s capacity to coordinate movement. Spinocerebellar ataxias are characterised by a loss of neurons, primarily within the cerebellum which is the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination. However, studies show that degeneration can also present within the brainstem, spinal cord and basal ganglia (Klockgether et al., 2019).

There are over 40 subtypes of Spinocerebellar ataxia and due to this, symptoms can vary based on the subtype, however, common symptoms can include:

  • Unsteady gait.
  • Reduced coordination of fine and gross motor tasks.
  • Slurred or slow speech (dysarthria).
  • Vision impairments including difficulty controlling eye movements.
  • Fatigue.
 

Due to the progressive nature of this condition, individuals experience reductions in independence, confidence, physical and psychological wellbeing, capacity to engage in hobbies, activities of daily living and workplace duties. This has a negative impact on overall quality of life. Currently, Spinocerebellar Ataxia’s do not have a cure, however, there are targeted therapies which can aid in slowing the progression of the condition.

 

The Benefits of Exercise for Spinocerebellar Ataxia

Studies have found that participation in regular balance, aerobic, strength and gait training can help reduce condition severity (Barbuto et al., 2023; Matsugi et al., 2025; Winser et al., 2022). Balance and coordination exercises help improve postural control. This is beneficial in reducing falls risk, injury risk and improving confidence to mobilise within the home and community. Aerobic exercise supports cardiovascular health and can aid in managing fatigue levels, which is a common symptom in Spinocerebellar Ataxia’s. Additionally, strength training can help improve muscular control, develop functional independence and aid in improving balance.
 

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How can an Exercise Physiologist help?

Commencing engagement with an Exercise Physiologist is beneficial for those diagnosed with Spinocerebellar Ataxia’s. This is due to Exercise Physiologists being ale to provide a safe, targeted and evidence-based exercise program that is tailored to each individual’s presentation. Exercise Physiologists are able to guide individuals through balance and gait specific training and task-specific exercises that promote improved motor control and decrease falls and injury risk. As symptoms change over time, Exercise Physiologists can adapt programs to continue promoting improved function, independence and provide ongoing education and support.

 
References

Matsugi, A., Bando, K., Kondo, Y., Kikuchi, Y., Miyata, K., Hiramatsu, Y., Yamanaka, Y., Tanaka, H., Okuda, Y., Haruyama, K/. Yamasaki, Y. (2025). Effects of physiotherapy on degenerative cerebellar ataxia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front. Neurol. 15- 2024. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2024.1491142

Klockgether, T., Mariotti, C. & Paulson, H.L. Spinocerebellar ataxia. Nat Rev Dis Primers 5, 24 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41572-019-0074-3 Barbuto, S., Kuo, SH., Winterbottom, L. et al. Home Aerobic Training for Cerebellar Degenerative Diseases: a Randomized Controlled Trial. Cerebellum 22, 272–281 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12311-022-01394-4

Winser, S., Chan, H. K., Chen, W. K., Hau, C. Y., Leung, S. H., Leung, Y. H., & Bello, U. M. (2023). Effects of therapeutic exercise on disease severity, balance, and functional Independence among individuals with cerebellar ataxia: A systematic review with meta-analysis. Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, 39(7), 1355–1375. https://doi.org/10.1080/09593985.2022.2037115

 

Written By Uplift EP, Mykaila Walls

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