4 Conditions That May Increase Your Risk of Spasticity

Spasticity is a symptom of various neurological conditions that causes involuntary muscle spasms and rigidity. Under normal circumstances the muscles have fluid movement and are under voluntary control. 

In spasticity, the muscles remain tight and contracted, interfering with movement, and sometimes causing speech problems. Spasticity develops as a result of damage to the part of the brain responsible for voluntary movement. 

Through his practice Neurology Specialists of Albuquerque, neurologist Dr. Timothy Ownbey, DO, diagnoses and treats neurological conditions, including spasticity, which is a symptom of certain neurological conditions. 

When severe, spasticity can cause significant pain, and get in the way of normal daily functioning. There are several treatment options for spasticity. Knowing the conditions that may increase your risk can help in identifying and managing spasticity early. Here are four conditions that are commonly linked to spasticity. 

Stroke

A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted, depriving the brain of oxygen. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die, leading to damage in the areas responsible for motor control. This damage can result in spasticity, which may develop days, weeks, or even months after the stroke.

Managing poststroke spasticity

Managing spasticity after a stroke involves a combination of physical therapy, medications, and sometimes surgical interventions. Early rehabilitation is crucial to improve motor function and reduce muscle stiffness. Medications such as muscle relaxants and nerve blockers can also help alleviate symptoms.

Multiple sclerosis

In some cases, conditions that involve immune dysfunction can lead to spasticity. Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, causing damage to the protective covering of nerve fibers. 

This disruption in nerve communication can result in various neurological symptoms, including spasticity. MS-related spasticity can range from mild stiffness to severe, painful muscle contractions.

Treatment options for MS-related spasticity

Treatment for spasticity in MS typically includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and medications like baclofen or tizanidine. In some cases, botulinum toxin injection therapy may be recommended. Regular exercise and stretching can also help manage symptoms.

Cerebral palsy

Cerebral palsy refers to a group of disorders that affect your ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It’s caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain, typically before birth. Spasticity affects about 80% of people with cerebral palsy, leading to stiff and awkward movements.

Managing spasticity in cerebral palsy

Managing spasticity in individuals with cerebral palsy typically involves a multidisciplinary approach. Neurologists work together with physical therapists, orthopedic surgeons, and neurosurgeons to increase movement and function, and decrease spasticity symptoms. In severe cases, surgical procedures like selective dorsal rhizotomy may be considered.

Spinal cord injury

Injuries to the spinal cord from a sudden trauma such as car accident or fall can cause spasticity. In this case, the spinal cord damage interrupts the communication between the brain and the muscles, leading to spasticity. The severity of spasticity can vary depending on the extent of the injury.

Approaches to managing spasticity in SCI

Physicians use a combination of approaches to manage spinal injury related spasticity. A typical treatment plan may include physical therapy, medications, and assistive devices. Medications such as oral baclofen, diazepam, and tizanidine help manage muscle stiffness. 

For some patients, intrathecal baclofen pumps or botulinum toxin injections can provide relief. Physical therapy focuses on stretching and strengthening exercises to maintain muscle function and flexibility.

If you have a condition that puts you at risk for spasticity, know that treatments are available to ease pain and reduce the impact on your quality of life. For more information, and to request an appointment with Dr. Ownbey, contact our office today.