From the Research
The most effective therapy for Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease is a multidisciplinary approach that includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, orthopedic devices, pain management, regular monitoring, genetic counseling, and surgical interventions as needed, with a focus on maintaining quality of life and function. This approach is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which suggests that exercise therapy, particularly strengthening exercises, can improve muscle strength in children with CMT1A 1.
Key components of the treatment plan include:
- Physical therapy: Regular exercises to maintain muscle strength and flexibility, focusing on range of motion, stretching, and low-impact aerobic activities, 3-5 times per week
- Occupational therapy: To help with daily activities and provide adaptive equipment as needed
- Orthopedic devices: Custom foot orthotics, ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), or other braces to improve stability and gait
- Pain management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen as needed, with prescription medications considered for severe pain
- Regular monitoring: Annual check-ups with a neurologist to assess disease progression and adjust treatment plans
- Genetic counseling: For family planning and understanding inheritance patterns
- Surgical interventions: In some cases, procedures to correct foot deformities or release tight tendons may be recommended
The goal of this approach is to maintain quality of life and function by addressing the progressive nerve damage characteristic of CMT, as there is currently no cure for the disease 2. While the evidence is not yet conclusive for all aspects of treatment, the available data suggest that a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach can significantly improve daily living and slow symptom progression 3, 1.