What is Spasticity?

Spasticity is a medical condition characterized by muscle stiffness and disrupted movement patterns. Due to its symptoms, this condition can be unpleasant and affect one's quality of life.

Here are the causes and symptoms of spasticity and the potential treatments.

Defining spasticity

Spasticity occurs when certain body muscles become stiff (contracted) during movement or resting. These muscles can't relax or stretch, causing discomfort and problems with movement. As a result, spasticity can affect gait (manner of walking), general movement, and speech.

Causes of spasticity

The brain and spinal cord control our muscles and stretch reflexes. When there's no damage or disruption, this area operates perfectly. Spasticity occurs when there are issues with controlling these reflexes. In most cases, the imbalance between inhibitory and excitatory signals "confuses" the muscles, thus triggering spasms.

Spasticity is common in people with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, and multiple sclerosis.

Symptoms of spasticity

The symptoms vary in their intensity. One can experience mild symptoms like muscle tightness but be able to function normally. However, the symptoms can be severe and cause uncontrollable spasms and stiffness. Please note that not all people that suffer from spasticity experience all symptoms; every case is unique.

The most common symptoms include the following:

  • Involuntary muscle contractions (spasms)

  • Pain

  • Discomfort

  • A feeling similar to a tremor

  • Muscle, joint, or bone deformities

  • Difficulty performing activities

  • Difficulty walking

  • Sleep disruption

  • Problems with posture

Treating spasticity

Unfortunately, there's no cure for spasticity. However, one can keep this condition under control. Besides surgical treatments, there are less invasive, non-surgical options one should explore.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy (PT) can significantly improve muscle mobility and range of motion. Experts design individual plans and ensure the proper completion of the exercises. PT mostly consists of stretching and strengthening exercises centering on large muscle groups.

Occupational therapy

In this case, the focus is on smaller muscle groups. Occupational therapy aims to help the patient perform daily activities by improving coordination and strength.

Braces and casts

These items reduce the risk of involuntary muscle contractions and tightness.

Oral medications

When the symptoms are so severe they take a toll on one's ability to perform daily tasks, oral medications become a part of the treatment plan.

Botox

Botox injections can effectively prevent muscle contractions, but their effect is short-term.

Rely on professionals

These options for treating spasticity help improve the overall quality of life. All options are viable only if the patient works with experienced, reliable, skilled professionals. These experts can examine the patient and recommend the best plan.


If you are looking for occupational or physical therapy, vestibular rehab, wheelchair training, learning to walk, unweighting aquatic therapy, or other services in the Phoenix area, please call Touchstone Rehabilitation at 602-277-1073.