Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Awareness Month

Posted on July 16, 2025

August is Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public, supporting families, and advancing early diagnosis and treatment. At ImageCare Radiology, we believe awareness begins with understanding, and that includes recognizing the vital role of musculoskeletal imaging in identifying and managing neuromuscular conditions like SMA. 

What is Spinal Muscular Atrophy? 

Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the motor neurons responsible for voluntary muscle movement. It is both rare and serious, but advances in imaging and early detection are helping improve outcomes and quality of life for those affected. In this blog, we’ll explain how musculoskeletal imaging supports SMA care and how you can help raise awareness during the month of August. 

Ways to Raise Awareness About Spinal Muscular Atrophy in August 

Raising awareness for SMA helps create a more supportive and informed community. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, caregiver, or advocate, here are five meaningful ways to get involved: 

  1. Share Reliable Information: Use your social media platforms to post facts and resources about SMA. Highlight symptoms, genetic testing, treatment options, and the importance of early diagnosis. 
  2. Support SMA Foundations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations such as Cure SMA or the SMA Foundation. These groups fund critical research and offer resources to families navigating the condition. 
  3. Host or Join Community Events: Whether it’s a fundraiser, walk, or webinar, participating in local awareness events brings visibility and support to the SMA community. 
  4. Educate Schools and Pediatric Offices: Distribute educational materials or organize talks that help teachers, parents, and pediatric providers recognize early signs of SMA. 
  5. Wear Purple: Purple is the official color for SMA awareness. Wearing it throughout August can spark conversations and show solidarity with families affected by this condition.

What Role Does Musculoskeletal Imaging Play in Spinal Muscular Atrophy? 

Musculoskeletal imaging is an essential component of diagnosing and monitoring neuromuscular conditions like spinal muscular atrophy. Because SMA impacts muscles and movement, detailed imaging can reveal the extent of muscle weakness, degeneration, and structural changes in the spine and joints. 

Here’s how musculoskeletal imaging supports SMA care: 

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): MRI scans provide detailed images of muscles and the spinal cord without radiation. They help identify patterns of muscle atrophy or fatty replacement and can evaluate changes over time. In children, MRIs are especially helpful for noninvasive monitoring of disease progression. 
  • Ultrasound: Muscle ultrasound is increasingly used as a bedside, child-friendly imaging technique. It can detect changes in muscle thickness and echogenicity, offering real-time insights without the need for sedation. 
  • X-ray: Standard X-rays may be used to monitor skeletal changes such as scoliosis (curvature of the spine), a common complication in SMA patients. 
  • CT Scans:
    Though less commonly used due to radiation exposure, CT scans may be helpful in complex cases where detailed bone imaging is needed. 

These tools allow neurologists and pediatricians to make informed decisions about interventions, such as physical therapy, orthotic support, or surgical procedures, and evaluate how a patient responds to treatment over time.

Why Early Diagnosis Matters 

Early diagnosis of spinal muscular atrophy is crucial. SMA is caused by mutations in the SMN1 gene, which lead to the loss of motor neurons in the spinal cord. The earlier the condition is detected, the sooner supportive therapies and medications, such as gene therapy or SMN-enhancing drugs, can be initiated to preserve motor function. 

Some states in the U.S. now include SMA screening as part of newborn testing, allowing for treatment to begin before symptoms even appear. In these cases, musculoskeletal imaging can help establish a baseline and track muscle development from the very start.

Compassionate Imaging at ImageCare Radiology 

At ImageCare Radiology, we’re committed to supporting families affected by neuromuscular conditions with advanced musculoskeletal imaging delivered in a compassionate and patient-centered environment. Our radiologists work closely with referring physicians to ensure clear communication and thoughtful care at every stage of diagnosis and management. 

This SMA Awareness Month, we stand with patients, families, and care providers to raise awareness, improve outcomes, and continue the fight against spinal muscular atrophy.