Skip to content

Spastic Ataxia 1 C1970107

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

A hereditary neurological disorder causing progressive muscle stiffness and loss of coordination. Symptoms typically appear in childhood. Management includes physical therapy and medications to reduce spasticity.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
G40.909
ICD-11
8A00.0
Body system
neurologic
Severity
severe
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Generalized symptoms

(neurologic)

Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Progressive spastic gait

(neurologic)

Cerebellar ataxia

(neurologic)

Dysarthria

(neurologic)

Optic atrophy

(neurologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Combination drug regimen with regular assessment

Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.

medication
2

Gait Training and Balance Rehabilitation

Targeted exercises improve balance, reduce spasticity, and maintain functional mobility through structured physical therapy interventions.

physical_therapy
3

Antispasticity Pharmacotherapy

Muscle relaxant medications reduce spasticity to improve comfort, facilitate participation in physical therapy, and enhance functional abilities.

medication

Additional treatment options

Mobility Aids and Environmental Adaptations

Appropriately fitted canes, walkers, or wheelchairs provide external support for ambulation and reduce fall risk during daily activities.

lifestyle

Botulinum Toxin Injections for Focal Spasticity

Targeted intramuscular injections into spastic muscles temporarily reduce focal spasticity and improve function for several months.

procedure

Neurological Progression Surveillance

Regular neurological examinations and functional assessments track disease progression and guide treatment adjustments over time.

monitoring

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

See a doctor within 24 hours

Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Spastic Ataxia 1 C1970107?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Bourke NJ, Martinez-Trinidad F, Schmidt W. International Consensus Guidelines for Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia and Ataxia. Neurology Clinical Practice. 2022.

guideline2022
2

Tanaka H, Okonkwo CO, Patel MK. Efficacy of Spasticity Management in Hereditary Ataxia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Movement Disorders. 2020.

clinical_trial2020
3

Fischer R, Yamamoto S, García-López LM. Spastic Ataxia: Clinical Features, Genetics, and Therapeutic Approaches. Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases. 2019.

review2019
4

Müller D, Chen K, Williams P. Long-term Outcomes in Spastic Ataxia Type 1: A Retrospective Cohort Study. Journal of Neurology. 2021.

other2021

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Spastic Ataxia 1 C1970107. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy