PRIME-Ataxia is an exercise-induced motor priming paradigm aimed to improve tasks of balance/stability in those with spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA is a monogenetic tri-nucleotide CAG repeat disorder). Those with SCA often present with “cerebellar syndrome,” in which speech, gait, and balance are all affected by ataxia or incoordination. Each case of SCA is unique, but they all seem to have these traits. A landmark study in the early 2000s showed that training balance over gait-specific training in those with ataxia improved not only balance but also gait. We asked what would be a way that we could enhance that effect? Studies in other neurodegenerative diseases have explored Priming or Consolidating motor functions with aerobic exercise, and that is where we came up with this idea. Priming motor function enhances motor learning, which is often profoundly impacted in those with cerebellar disorders. This fully remote intervention (administered via telehealth) occurs 2x/week for two months. Participants engage in 30 minutes of aerobic exercise before intensive, patient-specific balance training.
Project Leads: Chelsea Macpherson Lori Quinn
Project Members: Miriam King Kelsey Kempner