Diseases
spasticity
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Spasticity is a symptom and characteristic of certain neurological conditions. It causes certain muscles to contract all at once. It ranges in severity and can affect movement and speech. There are several treatment options for spasticity, including physical therapy, medication and botulinum toxin injections.
Symptoms
- increased muscle tone (hypertonia).
- muscle spasms
- pain or discomfort.
- abnormal posture.
- muscle, joint and/or bone deformities.
Causes
- spinal cord injury
- multiple sclerosis (ms)
- brain or head injury
Risk factors
- hereditary spastic paraplegias.
- amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (als), also known as lou gehrig’s disease.
Diagnosis
- physical exam
- medical history
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is spasticity?
Spasticity is a symptom and characteristic of certain neurological conditions. It causes certain muscles to contract all at once. It ranges in severity and can affect movement and speech. There are several treatment options for spasticity, including physical therapy, medication and botulinum toxin injections.
What are the symptoms of spasticity?
increased muscle tone (hypertonia)., muscle spasms, pain or discomfort., abnormal posture., muscle, joint and/or bone deformities.
What causes spasticity?
spinal cord injury; multiple sclerosis (ms); brain or head injury
Which medicines are used for spasticity?
baclofen, dantrolene, onabotulinumtoxinA, tizanidine
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