Spasticity
Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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| Spasticity | |
|---|---|
| File:Spasticity pl.svg | |
| Synonyms | N/A |
| Pronounce | N/A |
| Specialty | N/A |
| Symptoms | Muscle stiffness, muscle spasms, hypertonia |
| Complications | Contractures, pain, pressure sores |
| Onset | Any age, often after neurological injury |
| Duration | Chronic |
| Types | N/A |
| Causes | Cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, spinal cord injury |
| Risks | Immobility, joint deformity |
| Diagnosis | Clinical assessment, physical examination |
| Differential diagnosis | Rigidity, dystonia, tremor |
| Prevention | N/A |
| Treatment | Physical therapy, medication, surgery |
| Medication | Baclofen, tizanidine, diazepam, botulinum toxin |
| Prognosis | Variable, depends on underlying cause |
| Frequency | Common in neurological disorders |
| Deaths | N/A |
Spasticity[edit]
Introduction[edit]
Spasticity is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in muscle tone or stiffness, which can interfere with movement, speech, or cause discomfort and pain. It results from an increase in the velocity-dependent muscle contractions, often due to neurological disorders.
Causes[edit]
Spasticity is commonly associated with damage to the nerve pathways within the brain or spinal cord that control muscle movement. It often appears in conditions such as:
Symptoms[edit]
Symptoms of spasticity may include:
- Increased muscle tone.
- Overactive reflexes.
- Involuntary muscle spasms.
- Difficulty with movement and coordination.
- Pain and discomfort.
Diagnosis[edit]
Diagnosis of spasticity involves a thorough neurological examination and assessment of muscle tone and strength. Healthcare providers may also use tools like the Modified Ashworth Scale to measure the severity of spasticity.
Treatment[edit]
Treatment aims to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Options may include:
- Physical therapy and stretching exercises.
- Medications like muscle relaxants.
- Injections with botulinum toxin.
- Surgery in severe cases.
Impact on Daily Life[edit]
Spasticity can significantly impact a person's daily life, affecting their ability to perform everyday tasks, their mobility, and overall quality of life.
Recent Advances[edit]
Recent advances in treatment and management of spasticity include the development of new pharmacological treatments and improved rehabilitation techniques.
See Also[edit]
References[edit]
External Links[edit]
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
- American Association of Neurological Surgeons - Spasticity
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