brain, spinal cord, and nerve disorders
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia
Introduction
Hereditary (familial) spastic paraplegia is a group of rare hereditary disorders that cause gradual weakness with muscle spasms (spastic weakness) in the legs. People with hereditary spastic paraplegia have exaggerated reflexes, cramps, and spasms, making walking difficult. Doctors look for other family members who have the disorder, rule out disorders that can cause similar symptoms, and may do genetic tests. Treatment includes physical therapy, exercise, and medications to reduce spasticity. (See also Overview of Spinal Cord Disorders .) Hereditary spastic paraplegia affects both sexes and may begin at any age. It affects about 1 to 10 of 100,000 people. This disorder has many forms and can result from many different types of genetic abnormalities. All forms cause degeneration of the nerve pathways that carry signals from the brain down the spinal cord (to muscles). More than one area of the spinal cord may be affected. 