What is Spasticity?
Spasticity is abnormal muscle tension due to prolonged muscle contraction. It is a symptom that can be associated with damage to the brain, spinal cord or motor nerves.
Symptoms
Spasticity most often occurs in the muscles of the arms and legs.
Causes and Risks
Spasticity can be caused by certain neurological conditions, such as Cerebral palsy, Multiple sclerosis, Stroke, or Traumatic Brain Injury.
Treatment and Prevention
It is important to actively treat spasticity to improve comfort and mobility. Spasticity can worsen without treatment, resulting in increased pain, mobility issues, and joint deformity.
Treatment is focused on relaxing the muscles. Treatments can include:
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Medications
- Botox