Management of Muscle Spasticity

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Abstract
Severe muscle spasticity is a common symptom in patients with neurological disability. Although muscle hypertonia in these patients results in impairment of voluntary movements and interferes with motor function, it is often invaluable for the maintenance of trunk posture, weight bearing on the weak lower limbs and ambulation. Other possible beneficial effects of muscle spasticity are prevention of deep vein thrombosis in the paretic limb, maintenance of muscle mass and bone density. Treatment of spasticity should, therefore, follow careful functional assessment of these patients. Common treatment goals are to alleviate painful spasms, to prevent contractures and bone deformities and to improve positioning in a bed or chair. This article reviews various forms of treatment of muscle spasticity including antispasticity drugs, botulinum toxin, chemical neurolysis, surgery and physiotherapy.

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