Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is a motor neuron disease. The motor neurons control the voluntary muscles that are used for activities such as crawling, walking, head and neck control, and swallowing. The loss of motor neurons results in muscle weakness and atrophy. SMA is a relatively common "rare disorder": approximately 1 in 6000 babies born are affected, and about 1 in 40 people are genetic carriers.

SMA affects muscles throughout the body, although the proximal muscles (those closest to the trunk of one’s body - i.e. shoulders, hips, and back) are often most severely affected. Weakness in the legs is generally greater than in the arms. Sometimes feeding and swallowing can be affected. Involvement of respiratory muscles (muscles involved in breathing and coughing) can lead to an increased tendency for pneumonia and other lung problems. Sensation and the ability to feel are not affected. Intellectual activity is normal and it is often observed that patients with SMA are unusually bright and sociable. There are four types of SMA: SMA Type I, II, III and IV. The determination of the type of SMA is based upon the physical milestones achieved. It is important to note that the course of the disease may be different for each affected person.

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