Educational Initiative for SMA Physical Therapists (STEP IN) Launches Website

With the availability of disease modifying therapies for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), there is an urgent demand to develop an educational program that would provide PTs worldwide the necessary knowledge and training to contribute to patient care and clinical research. The Spinal Muscular Atrophy Teaching and Excellence for Physiotherapists, an International Network, known as STEP IN, seeks to develop training expertise and shared educational resources for physiotherapists who provide clinical care or research for SMA patients. This international network, led by Co-Chairs and Columbia University PT faculty Drs. Jacqueline Montes and Jean Timmerberg, fosters mentorship and collaboration for physical therapists involved in clinical management and or clinical research.

The website will have open-access resources and information on the formal education program in development. Future updates will also offer opportunities for discussion and foster communication of PTs around the world about the clinical management of individuals with SMA.

Check out the website and join or list serve for updates at www.stepinsma.org