Neurological Physiotherapy
Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis (HSP)
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia Physiotherapy Adelaide
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP), sometimes referred to as Hereditary Spastic Paraparesis, is a group of rare inherited neurological conditions that primarily affect the nerves responsible for controlling movement in the legs.
HSP usually causes gradually increasing muscle stiffness (spasticity), weakness and difficulty walking. While symptoms often progress slowly over many years, physiotherapy plays an important role in maintaining mobility, independence and quality of life.
At Advanced Neuro Rehab, our Neurological Physiotherapists provide personalised rehabilitation programs to help people living with HSP stay active, safe and independent for as long as possible.
What is Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia?
HSP affects the long nerve pathways that carry movement signals from the brain to the legs. As these pathways gradually become less efficient, muscles become stiffer and weaker, making walking increasingly difficult.
There are many different genetic forms of HSP. Some people experience symptoms only in their legs (uncomplicated HSP), while others may also develop additional neurological symptoms (complicated HSP).
The progression and severity of HSP vary considerably from person to person.
Common Symptoms
People living with HSP may experience:
- Muscle stiffness (spasticity)
- Leg weakness
- Walking difficulties
- Reduced balance
- Frequent tripping or falls
- Muscle spasms
- Fatigue
- Tight muscles
- Reduced flexibility
- Foot drop
Some people may also experience:
- Reduced coordination (ataxia)
- Changes in sensation (peripheral neuropathy)
- Bladder symptoms
- Vision changes
- Mild cognitive changes
Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Although there is currently no cure for HSP, physiotherapy is an important part of long-term management.
Our rehabilitation programs focus on maintaining mobility, reducing secondary complications and helping you remain independent throughout the course of the condition.
Treatment may include:
- Walking and gait retraining
- Balance rehabilitation
- Strength training
- Stretching and spasticity management
- Mobility and flexibility exercises
- Cardiovascular fitness programs
- Falls prevention
- Functional mobility training
- Individualised home exercise programs
Your program is tailored to your goals and adjusted as your needs change over time.
Managing Spasticity and Mobility
Muscle stiffness can gradually affect walking, posture and everyday activities.
Our Neurological Physiotherapists work closely with rehabilitation physicians, neurologists and orthotists to help manage spasticity and maintain mobility. This may include:
- Stretching programs
- Movement retraining
- Advice regarding orthotics (AFOs)
- Walking aid prescription
- Mobility equipment recommendations
- Education about energy conservation and fatigue management
Our goal is to help you move as efficiently and safely as possible while maintaining your independence.
Supporting You Beyond Exercise
Living with HSP often involves more than physical rehabilitation.
We provide education and support regarding:
- Disease management
- Maintaining independence
- Falls prevention
- Carer education
- Equipment recommendations
- NDIS reports and funding applications where appropriate
- Communication with your GP, neurologist and wider healthcare team
We believe that proactive planning and collaborative care can make a significant difference throughout every stage of the condition.
Why Choose Advanced Neuro Rehab?
Our Neurological Physiotherapists have extensive experience working with people living with progressive neurological conditions.
We understand that HSP affects everyone differently. Our rehabilitation programs are individualised, evidence-based and designed to help you maintain mobility, confidence and participation in the activities that matter most to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can physiotherapy help Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia?
Yes. While physiotherapy cannot stop the progression of HSP, it can help maintain strength, mobility, flexibility and balance, while reducing the impact of spasticity on everyday life.
Does exercise make HSP worse?
Appropriately prescribed exercise is generally encouraged and can help maintain function, cardiovascular fitness and overall wellbeing. Your physiotherapist will tailor your exercise program to your individual abilities and goals.
Will I eventually need a walking aid?
Not everyone does. The need for walking aids varies greatly between individuals and depends on the type and progression of HSP. If appropriate, your physiotherapist can recommend equipment that improves safety and independence.
Can physiotherapy help reduce falls?
Yes. Balance training, strengthening, gait retraining and appropriate equipment prescription can all help reduce falls risk and improve confidence with walking.
Can you help with NDIS reports and equipment recommendations?
Yes. We regularly assist people living with HSP by providing functional assessments, equipment recommendations, carer education and reports to support NDIS funding and other services.
