Spasticity is a condition characterized by involuntary muscle stiffness, spasms, or exaggerated reflexes, typically resulting from damage to the central nervous system. It commonly occurs after stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis (MS), traumatic brain injury (TBI), or cerebral palsy.
When spasticity becomes severe or uncontrolled, it can lead to chronic pain, joint contractures, impaired mobility, and significant disability, impacting independence and quality of life.
What Causes Spasticity?
Spasticity is caused by a disruption in communication between the brain and spinal cord, leading to overactive muscle tone and resistance to movement. Common neurological conditions associated with spasticity include:
Stroke
Spinal cord injury
Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Cerebral palsy
Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., ALS, Parkinson’s disease)
Symptoms of Spasticity
Increased muscle tone or stiffness
Involuntary muscle spasms (especially at night or with movement)
Joint stiffness or contractures
Pain from muscle overuse, strain, or immobility
Abnormal posture or limb positioning
Difficulty walking, sitting, or performing daily tasks
Goals of Spasticity Management
The primary objectives in managing spasticity are to:
Reduce pain and muscle stiffness
Improve mobility and function
Prevent joint deformity and skin breakdown
Enhance independence and quality of life
Conservative Treatment Options
Oral Medications
Muscle relaxants such as baclofen, tizanidine, or diazepam
Anti-spasticity agents like dantrolene sodium (less commonly used)
These medications may help reduce tone but can cause sedation or weakness
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Stretching and range-of-motion exercises to prevent contractures
Splinting and bracing for joint protection and positioning
Functional mobility training to maximize independence
Interventional and Advanced Treatment Options
When conservative therapy alone is not effective, interventional procedures can offer more precise and targeted relief:
Botulinum Toxin Injections (Botox®, Xeomin®, Dysport®)
Injected into overactive muscles to temporarily block nerve signaling and reduce spasm
Commonly used for focal spasticity in the arms, legs, hands, or neck
Effects typically last 3–4 months and can be repeated
Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy (ITB)
A surgically implanted pump delivers baclofen directly into the spinal fluid
Allows for higher efficacy with fewer systemic side effects
Ideal for severe, generalized spasticity that does not respond to oral medications
Nerve Blocks
Phenol or alcohol nerve blocks may be used for more permanent spasticity reduction
Used selectively for localized muscle groups
Peripheral Nerve or Motor Point Blocks
May provide short-term reduction in tone for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes
When to Consider Spasticity Intervention
You may benefit from interventional spasticity treatment if you or a loved one experiences:
Pain from tight or stiff muscles
Difficulty with mobility, transfers, or hygiene
Recurrent falls or unsafe posture
Plateau in progress despite therapy and medication
Side effects from oral anti-spasticity drugs
Personalized Spasticity Management for Better Living
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer comprehensive spasticity care, from diagnosis to advanced interventional treatment. Whether you’re recovering from stroke, managing multiple sclerosis, or living with cerebral palsy, our goal is to reduce pain, restore function, and improve your quality of life.
👉 Schedule a consultation today to explore your treatment options and build a personalized spasticity management plan.