Spasticity Management

What is Spasticity Management?

Spasticity is a condition which causes the muscles to suddenly tighten, stiffen, or contract, causing pain as well as inhibited movement, reflexes, and coordination. This typically occurs as a result of a neurological injury such as a stroke or head trauma, or a disorder such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy.
Spasticity management describes a treatment plan designed to reduce spasticity and facilitate rehabilitation. Treatments can include medications, physical therapy, and local injections.

How do you prepare for Spasticity Management?

Make sure to keep track of any recurring spasticity symptoms that you notice. Noting where and when you are feeling muscle tightness, stiffness, and fatigue may help with identifying the specific cause of spasticity. Other relevant information you should know before your first appointment includes any medications you are currently taking and any family history of spasticity-related medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis.

Why is Spasticity Management performed?

Spasticity can cause pain, impair function, and make it difficult to perform even basic everyday tasks. If untreated, muscle spasms can cause injuries and grow worse over time. Spasticity Management aims to treat this problem according to the goals and needs of each individual patient.

What can you expect during Spasticity Management?

During your first appointment for Spasticity Management, you and your doctor will review your relevant medical history together. You will be asked about the nature and frequency of your symptoms, as well as your goals and expectations from treatment.

What methods will be prescribed for Spasticity Management will vary from person to person, but may include:
– Stretching exercises to be performed on a daily basis
– Physical therapy
– Splints or braces
– Oral medications such as muscle relaxers
– Topical injections such as Botox
– Orthopedic surgery
– Neurosurgery

What is the followup and recovery like for Spasticity Management?

Followup appointments will be scheduled to monitor your progress and make necessary modifications and adjustments to your treatment plan. Effective treatment requires you and your doctor to work together over time to find an optimal plan. This may also involve referrals to other experts, for physical therapy or in situations where surgery is necessary.

What are the potential risks for Spasticity Management?

No particular Spasticity Management method or technique is guaranteed to be effective, but ultimately the risk of ignoring recurring spasticity symptoms is higher than that of treating them.