Spasticity: a multidisciplinary disorder If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with spasticity, it is important to gain a comprehensive understanding of the disorder and its impacts. Knowing the causes and effects of spasticity can give insight into treatment options and will improve your ability to manage the effects of the condition. What is spasticity and how is it caused? Spasticity is a condition that can be caused by damage to the area of the brain or spinal cord in which voluntary movement controls are located. It can also be caused by a number of velocity-dependent conditions affecting the Central Nervous System. Such conditions will result in specific muscles experiencing continuous contractions, stiffness or tightness. Types …show more content…
Static: Muscle contractions or stiffness can be triggered independent of activity or position 2. Dynamic: The muscle stiffness and contractions associated with spasticity are only caused by specific positions or …show more content…
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for spasticity. However, the symptoms of spasticity can be easily managed through the use of therapeutic, pharmacological or surgical intervention. The treatment of those diagnosed with spasticity must be closely managed by neurologists, neurosurgeons, physiotherapists, traumatologists, rehabilitation physicians and in some cases, psychologists. Non-pharmacological therapeutic interventions: This approach to managing spasticity involves the use of gentle physical exercise, such as swimming, muscle stretching, standing exercises and hydrotherapy, in order to improve muscle tone and minimize the severity of any episodes experienced by the individual. Splints, prostheses and hot and cold packs can also be beneficial to the person with spasticity. Pharmacological interventions: Oral prescriptions such as baclofen, benzodiazepines, dantrolene and tizanidine are the most commonly used medications to assist in controlling the symptoms of spasticity. Botulinum is also common and is injected straight into the affected muscle group to reduce unwanted spasms or paralyze the muscle completely. The use of prescription medication is effective; however, these drugs often have unwanted side-effects, including, drowsiness and