ARCA Sensitive Therapy — Intensive Programme for SMA and Muscular Dystrophy

ARCA Sensitive Therapy is a specialised 14-day intensive neurorehabilitation programme at ARCADA for children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), muscular dystrophy, and other conditions requiring reduced mechanical loading compared to the standard ARCA Neuro Intensive. The programme applies the same multidisciplinary framework — TheraTogs, sensorimotoric stimulation, Bobath concept, PNF, respiratory physiotherapy, and multisensory room — but calibrates load and intensity to the specific vulnerabilities of neuromuscular patients. Alternating cycles of load and recovery are built into the daily schedule to prevent overexertion while maximising neuroplasticity stimulus. At 2 000 Kč for the full 14-day block, this is one of the most accessible intensive neurorehabilitation options available in Central Europe.

ARCA Sensitive Therapy at ARCADA NeuroMedical Center was developed in recognition that the standard intensity of intensive neurorehabilitation — appropriate for cerebral palsy and stroke survivors — is not safe for children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophy, and related neuromuscular conditions where muscle fibre fragility means conventional loading protocols risk injury or excessive fatigue. The programme adapts the ARCADA intensive model in three key ways: 1. **Load calibration:** Mechanical resistance and bodyweight loading are reduced across all therapy modalities. TheraTogs provides postural support without imposing the active resistance loads used in TheraSuit protocols. 2. **Intensity alternation:** The daily schedule incorporates structured recovery periods between active therapy blocks, preventing cumulative fatigue that could temporarily worsen function in neuromuscular patients. 3. **Respiratory integration:** RESPIRO respiratory physiotherapy is integrated as a core (not supplementary) component, given that respiratory muscle function is a critical concern in SMA and muscular dystrophy progression. Core methods used within ARCA Sensitive Therapy include: - **TheraTogs:** Wearable biomechanical support maintaining joint alignment during activity - **Sensorimotoric stimulation:** Enhancing proprioceptive feedback to compensate for reduced active muscle control - **Bobath Concept:** NDT-based handling and facilitation technique for normalising tone and movement patterns - **PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation):** Diagonal movement patterns that recruit multiple muscle groups in coordinated, functional sequences - **RESPIRO Respiratory Physiotherapy:** Breathing exercises, respiratory muscle training, and secretion clearance techniques - **Multisensory Room (Snoezelen):** Reducing neural over-stimulation and supporting sensory integration in a calming environment The programme runs 14 consecutive days. The confirmed price of 2 000 Kč for the full block (approximately €80) reflects ARCADA's mission to make intensive neurorehabilitation accessible to families managing the financial burden of a progressive neuromuscular diagnosis. International families should contact the clinic to confirm current pricing and to arrange pre-programme assessment and accommodation at Vila ARCA Hranice.