Spasticity definition and management

Spasticity is a common symptom for those who have suffered a spinal cord injury (SCI). It is partly beneficial and the rest is problematic. Although spasticity’s positive effects on body function are well-documented, the condition can become exhausting if its spasms are not managed well, increasing the risk of serious medical problems and decreasing the patient’s overall quality of life. In this article, we’ll look at spasticity from every perspective: what it is? what causes it? what the pros and cons are? and how to deal with it.

Introduction

What is spasticity?

Muscular spasms, or spasticity, are unintentional, uncontrolled muscle movements that occur entirely on their own. stretching or contracting of any muscles below the site of the injury. imagine, you are taking tea and suddenly your hand starts dancing. you are driving and your legs want to rock n roll. this is a movement with your consent. there are numerous symptoms but given below are most commonly observed in people with Sci.

A lot of people have:

• Muscles have grown more firm (muscle tone)
• Over-arousal of the muscle contraction
• Flexion and extension spasms that are unable to control
• a limitation to the freedom of movement
• spinal cord injury resulting in spasticity in the dorsal root
• Jumping-like or continual spasms are both possible symptoms of spasticity.
• Spasticity is different from stiffening in that the degree to which you experience spasms depends on the speed at which you are moving.

What are the causes of spasticity?

Muscles and reflexes below the level of spinal cord injury can be stimulated by any stimulation or sensory perceptions received below that level. When the brain is unable to transmit a message down the spinal cord to control a reflex, the body’s reaction to stimulation by stretching or releasing the relevant muscles (extension).

when we try to do something with speed, our brain is blocked at the injury point so reflexes of the lower body get their freedom and start jumping with joy. sometimes it is really embarrassing and annoying, especially when you are in a public gathering. Read more here.

WHAT INFORMATION DO I REQUIRE?

Every day after spinal cord injury educates us on a new lifestyle. we need to learn new things according to our needs.

What factors might contribute to your spasticity worsening?

• An incorrect stance(body posture)
• Bacterial infections (such as urinary tract infections and bladder infections)
• Emptying (bowel or bladder)
• An Exertion Attempt
• Panic
• A pressure sore, an ingrown toenail, a burn, etc., are all examples of things that may be physically uncomfortable.
• Spasticity may be influenced by variations in barometric pressure, according to certain reports.

what are the advantages of spasticity?

• A sign that something is amiss with your body
• The ability to maintain muscular tone (prevent muscle wasting)
• Promotes healthier blood flow(blood circulation)
• Spasms induced on purpose may improve bowel and bladder control.

Provides support for a wide range of daily tasks, including transferring, maintaining balance, and walking

negative effects of spasticity?

• Inducing muscular shortening around joints (called contractures) limits mobility permanently.
• Incorrect sitting or standing position
• Pain
• Trouble sleeping/exhaustion
• Reduced mobility, inability to shift position, and instability
• Damage to the skin from rubbing or shearing
• Incidents involving the bowels and bladder
• Embarrassment

HOW DO I GET OUT OF THIS?

What methods exist for reducing the effects of spasticity?

Subtraction of the offending stimuli; keep in mind that spasticity may be an indicator of a problem that you are unable to feel.

To be sure of:

• Suiting that is snug(tight dressing or undergarments)
• Constipation
• Leg bags that are too restrictive
• Simple pad
• Damaged catheter tubing
• Cut/bruise/burn
• Urinary tract infection symptoms
• Fractures, strains, and other injuries to muscles and joints
• High blood pressure

Administration

Contractures and spasticity may be avoided or at least mitigated by engaging in a regular regimen of range of motion and stretching exercises. Reflexes in the muscles may be slowed and relaxed with gentle, persistent stretching. I am doing this since 2003.

Spasticity is worsened by sudden stretching. Instead of relying on a range of motion or stretching to keep your flexibility up, try switching to a more comfortable position in bed or your chair.

Methods of physical treatment for spasticity include:

• carrying one’s weight
• Stimulating Muscle Growth
• Stimulating with Current (TENS)
• Applying or withstanding heat or cold
• Positioning/seating
• Splinting/orthosis

The administration of drugs

Baclofen, dantrolene, tizanidine, clonidine, and gabapentin are some of the most often used drugs.

Other treatment choices include smoking marijuana, using a baclofen pump, or injecting the drug (either botox or phenol) Unwanted effects are a part of the drug-taking experience. Discuss the potential side effects with your doctor.

Who can help me?

Treatment and problem-solving for spasticity might be difficult. When dealing with a spinal cord injury, you may see a number of specialists.

Therapists that work with patients in a variety of settings include physical therapists (PT) and (OT)

After a spinal cord injury, an occupational therapist may assist patients in learning new ways to eat, groom, dress, and bathe independently. In order to ensure your family’s safety, they will conduct an evaluation of your home’s accessibility and suggest any necessary modifications or additions. Occupational therapists evaluate the requirement for mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, seats, and other devices.

An OT may help find splints, equipment, or tactics to lessen the impact of spasticity on daily living or avoid the development of spasticity-related complications (such as contractures or skin breakdown). Occupational therapy treatments are provided through the Spinal Cord Outpatient Program at GF Strong, and they may also be provided by the community health/home care services of your local health authority.

Physiatrist (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)

A physiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of disorders of the nervous system, muscles, ligaments, tendons, bones, and joints. Physical medicine and rehabilitation specialists (physiatrists) have extensive knowledge in many areas of medicine and may coordinate a patient’s treatment after a spinal cord injury.

A physiatrist will evaluate the impact of spasticity on other areas of health, such as sleep, movement, pain, and everyday living, and make appropriate referrals to specialists like physiotherapists and occupational therapists if necessary. When making treatment recommendations, they will take into account the individual’s whole situation as it relates to spasticity and suggest a variety of methods, including stretches, medication, and surgery.

Surgeon

Spine and neurosurgeons specialize in the spinal cord and peripheral nerve injuries and may provide surgical therapies, such as intrathecal baclofen and rhizotomy, for severe spasticity. A physiatrist will measure spasticity and then send you to a surgeon.

CONCLUSION

As you will not be able to totally eliminate spasms, managing spasticity becomes a priority. If you notice a shift in the frequency or severity of your spasticity, get medical attention right away. Improve your function and quality of life by learning how to identify therapeutic options that work best for you.