Causes & Treatments for Spasticity

What is Spasticity?

Spasticity is a medical condition characterized by increased muscle tone or stiffness in specific muscle groups, causing involuntary muscle contractions. It is a common symptom associated with various neurological disorders that affect the central nervous system, particularly the brain and spinal cord. Spasticity occurs due to a disruption in the normal communication between the brain and the muscles, leading to exaggerated reflexes and muscle tightness.

Spasticity is a condition that results in spasms. JOI Rehab Spasticity can be see in Contractions of the Hands.

How does Spasticity Affect Someone?

The variation of spasticity’s effect are vastly different in each individual case. Therefore, spasticity must be examined and studied on a case by case method to determine the severity and what route of treatment will be most effective. Such as the effects of spasticity could range anywhere from a slight discomfort or pain, all the way to disrupting a patient’s sleep and daily activities.

What does Spasticity Pain Feel Like?

Spasticity can cause pain and discomfort as result of the muscle spasms. This is most evident around the joints. Spasticity could also cause someone to experience low back pain. If you believe you are experiencing spasticity it could be result of one of the following causes.

7 Main Causes of Spasticity:

Spasticity can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, including:

Multiple Sclerosis (MS): An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, leading to communication problems between the brain and muscles. Muscle spasticity is common with MS.
Cerebral Palsy (CP): A group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood, often resulting from brain damage or abnormal brain development during pregnancy or childbirth.
Stroke: Occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, leading to brain cell damage and subsequent motor function impairment due to spasticity.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Head injuries, such as those sustained in accidents or falls, can lead to spasticity due to damage to the brain’s neural pathways.
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI): Damage to the spinal cord can disrupt signals between the brain and muscles, causing spasticity in the affected regions.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS): A progressive motor neuron disease that causes the degeneration of nerve cells controlling voluntary muscle movement.
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP): A group of inherited genetic disorders affecting the nerves in the spinal cord, leading to spasticity primarily in the lower limbs.

Should you See a Doctor for Spasticity?

Since spasticity is potentially a result of damage to your brain or spine, you should always seek a physician whenever you first experience symptoms. Post diagnosis of spasticity you should always keep your physician updated on any changes or increases in occurrence of the spasticity.

Physical therapist with patient with Spasticity JOI Rehab Physical Therapy can Help to Maintain Spasticity.

Treatments for Spasticity:

The management of spasticity aims to improve muscle function, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life. Spasticity treatment approaches may include:

Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and stretches help maintain muscle flexibility, prevent contractures, and promote functional improvement.
Oral Medications: Muscle relaxants, such as baclofen, tizanidine, or diazepam, can be prescribed to reduce spasticity and muscle tone.
Botulinum Toxin (Botox) Injections: Botox injections are used to weaken specific muscles temporarily and reduce spasticity in localized areas.
Intrathecal Baclofen Pump: In severe cases, a pump can be surgically implanted to deliver baclofen directly into the spinal fluid, providing continuous relief.
Nerve Blocks: Injection of anesthetics or alcohol can be used to interrupt nerve signals and reduce spasticity.
Orthotics and Assistive Devices: Braces, splints, or orthotic devices can help maintain proper joint alignment and improve functional abilities.
Electrical Stimulation: Techniques like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) may provide relief for some individuals.
Surgery: In certain cases, surgical procedures to cut specific nerves or lengthen tendons may be considered if other treatments are ineffective.

The choice of treatment depends on the severity of spasticity, the underlying cause, and the individual’s overall health and preferences. A multidisciplinary approach involving neurologists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and other healthcare professionals is essential for effective management.

Can Spasticity be Overcome?

Spasticity is a condition characterized by increased muscle tone and involuntary muscle contractions caused by disruptions in the communication between the brain and muscles. It is commonly associated with neurological disorders affecting the brain and spinal cord. The treatment of spasticity involves a range of approaches, including physical therapy, medications, injections, and surgical interventions, tailored to the individual’s specific condition and needs regarding the spasticity. Through a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan, individuals with spasticity can achieve improved functional abilities and a better quality of life.

Written By: Mikel Betancourt PTA

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