Managing Spasticity

Spasticity is a symptom and characteristic of certain neurological conditions that causes muscles to contract all at once. Depending on your condition, spasticity can range in severity and can affect movement and/or speech.

Living with Spasticity

Spasticity is caused by damage or disruption to the area of the brain and spinal cord that control muscle and stretch reflexes. When spasticity causes muscles to contract, the spasms can be very painful and lead to limitations.

Using assistive devices, aids, and home modifications recommended by your Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation specialist can help improve safety and help with daily living tasks such as bathing, eating, and dressing.

Home modifications could include:

• Ramps
• Grab bars
• Raised toilet seats
• Shower or tub bench
• Plastic adhesive strips on the bottom of the bathtub
• Braces, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs

It is important that you always follow your Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation specialist’s recommendations and advice about limitations you may face and your safety.

Treatment Options

There is no cure for spasticity, however, the limitations can be decreased, minimizing the burden on caregivers and improving the quality of life for those struggling with spasticity.

Some treatment options your Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation specialist may recommend include oral medications and botulinum toxin (Botox) injections.