Resources
Resources for every step of the journey, whether you are a patient, a caregiver, or simply looking to understand spasticity and movement disorders more deeply.
Understanding Spasticity
Spasticity Treatment Options Explained
FAQs
Can someone with spasticity walk again or regain use of their arm?
Spasticity in the arms or legs can significantly affect mobility and function. Whether someone can walk again or use their arm depends on several factors, including the cause and severity of the condition.
A thorough assessment by a specialist is necessary to determine what improvements are possible and what treatments may help support those goals.
How is spasticity different from muscle stiffness or rigidity?
Spasticity, muscle stiffness, and rigidity all involve increased muscle tightness, but they are different in how they affect movement and why they happen.
Spasticity is a condition where certain muscles are continuously contracted due to nerve damage, usually from brain or spinal cord injury. This causes muscles to feel tight and can make movements jerky or difficult to control. Spasticity often changes with speed of movement because faster movements can cause more tightness or resistance.
Muscle stiffness is a more general term describing muscles that feel tight or hard, often due to overuse, injury, or inflammation. It is usually not related to nerve problems and does not change with movement speed.
Rigidity is another type of muscle tightness, usually seen in conditions like Parkinson’s disease. Unlike spasticity, rigidity causes consistent resistance to movement no matter how fast or slow you try to move.
What can botulinum toxin do for me?
Botulinum toxin, often known by brand names like Botox, is used to help reduce muscle tightness caused by spasticity. It works by temporarily relaxing the muscles that are overly stiff or contracting involuntarily. This can improve your ability to move, reduce pain, and make daily activities easier. Treatments are targeted to specific muscles and are typically done with guidance to ensure precision and safety. The effects usually last several months, and repeat treatments can help maintain the benefits.
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