Hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP) is a rare, degenerative neurological genetic disease that impacts the nervous system. Primarily disrupting the upper motor neurons, HSP alters firing capabilities and signals, resulting in a disruption in walking gaits, vision, cognition, digestion, and lifestyles.
Currently, there are more than 80 different subtypes of HSP that are passed down generationally (hereditary). Some can lead to minor stiffness (spasticity) in the lower limbs, leading to trips and falls. Others can lead to the individual developing complete paralysis (paraplegia).
While every individual experiences different symptoms, with some severe and others less so, my client, Jason Jones is mostly affected in the lower limbs. This means his walking, posture, balance, strength, and flexibility are all greatly impacted. Because of this, he spends a good portion of his daily life in a wheelchair or using a walking cane.
In this interview, get an insight into what it’s like living with HSP, including the struggles, the triumphs, and his daily schedule.
This article originally appeared on Neuro Guild.