2nd International Clinical Care Symposium on Spinal Muscular Atrophy

from Research to rehabilitation

Musculoskeletal Care in SMA

SMA Europe is pleased to announce the 2nd International Clinical Care Symposium on Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), taking place on 4th and 5th March 2027 at the Grandior Hotel in Prague, Czech Republic. 

Musculoskeletal care in SMA is evolving rapidly. As patient outcomes continue to improve and their needs change over time, there is an opportunity to further develop and refine approaches to care and support and opportunities.

Link to abstract and poster submission

Focus areas

What to expect

Symposium 2027 will bring together around 300-400 leading experts from across Europe to challenge existing paradigms, explore innovative solutions, and define how musculoskeletal care can continue to evolve towards better outcomes, greater precision, and new standards of excellence.

Key topics of the event:

  • Rethinking Musculoskeletal Care: scoliosis, contractures, bone health and fragility
  • Innovation in Rehabilitation and Clinical Practice
  • Shaping the Future of Musculoskeletal Care Through Today's Knowledge 

Main sessions will focus on musculoskeletal system, clinical presentation, prevention and management of scoliosis, contractures and thorax deformities; exploring new perspectives on long-term function, novel assessment methodologies, technology-enabled care, and other innovative approaches with the potential to transform clinical practice.

Workshops will provide a platform to explore innovative physiotherapy approaches, novel rehabilitation concepts, and evolving clinical practices from across Europe, with the aim of identifying opportunities to advance musculoskeletal care and improve patient outcomes.

Oral presentations selected from submitted abstracts will complement the programme, highlighting emerging evidence, innovative methodologies, and real-world experiences from across the SMA community.

 

Sessions and Invited Speakers

Thursday 04 March 2027 09.00 – 20.00

Introductory talk
Musculoskeletal System in SMA: The Interplay Between Muscle, Bone, and Thoracic Function
Invited speaker: Ludo van der Pol
Session 1
Musculoskeletal System Development and Progressive Complications in SMA
Invited speaker: Kai Böker
Session 2
Bone Health in SMA: Pathology and Care
Invited speaker: Chiara Panicucci
Session 3
Spine in SMA: Pathology, Management, and Surgical Approaches
Invited speakers: Daniel Studer and Carole Vuillerot
Session 4
Hip in SMA: Pathology, Management, and Surgical Approaches
Invited speakers: Michail Kokkinakis and Giovanni Baranello
Session 5
Contractures and Joints in SMA: Pathology, Management, and Surgical Approaches
Invited speaker: Irene Oude Lansink

Friday 05 March 2027 08.30 – 16.00

Session 6
Prevention and Rehabilitation in SMA: Physiotherapy Approaches for the Musculoskeletal System
Invited speaker: TBC
Session 7
Clinical Decision-Making and Best Practice Models in Musculoskeletal Care Panel discussion
Invited panellists: Jana Haberlova, Juan Vazquez-Costa
Other panellists: orthopaedic experts, physiotherapists, surgeons, patient advocates
Session 8
Treatment updates and Innovation in SMA Care
Invited speaker: Eugenio Mercuri
Practical Workshop (per invitation only)
Physiotherapy approaches
Expert Workshop
The aim of the workshop will be to translate the symposium findings into priority areas for standards development and coordinated action

Organising Committee

Faculty

Abstracts and posters

Registration fees

Location

Contact Us!