What Are the Key Differences Between SMA Type 3 and Type 4?

SMA Type 3 and SMA Type 4 are often considered later-onset forms of Spinal Muscular Atrophy, but they are not the same. SMA types have historically been described by the age symptoms begin and the highest physical milestone a person reaches, such as sitting, standing, or walking.

SMA Type 3, sometimes called Kugelberg-Welander disease or juvenile SMA, usually begins after 18 months of age and may appear in childhood or adolescence. Many individuals with SMA Type 3 are able to stand or walk independently at some point, but they may experience progressive weakness, difficulty climbing stairs, trouble rising from a seated position, fatigue, balance challenges, and possible loss of walking ability over time. SMA Type 3 can severely affect the thigh muscles, especially the quadriceps, leading to unsteady walking and difficulty with stairs or standing from sitting. SMA Type 4, on the other hand, is a rarer adult-onset form that often begins in adulthood and is typically milder, with slower progression and weakness that may affect walking, endurance, and daily movement.

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https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7BT7VJqpaR7rASeJHidduTFEcqLSA0Ic

The SMA Victor Q&A:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7BT7VJqpaR7YFKqOYqs8lCeih48RO-5B

Learn More About SMA:

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The SMA Victor FAQs:

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The SMA Victor Music:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7BT7VJqpaR50uUMYbVhYsdncM-Bf1mO1

Victor's Life with SMA: 

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXeepRh23LFqpR6iOdsaVjgYaeRX5u_eP&si=fYKi0SN0JL1KVtcf

My book, Become the Victor: Turning Trials into Triumph, tells my personal journey and offers guidance for anyone who feels stuck, discouraged, or unsure how to move forward. It is a reminder that “your greatest tests will become your greatest testimony.” It is available online at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, iTunes, and Google Play Books. 

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