Its also common with neurological conditions like stroke,multiple sclerosis(M.S.
), and cerebral palsy.
Additionally, spasticity can develop from lack of oxygen to the brain or from certain metabolic disorders.
Living with spasticity can be challenging, but there are things that can help.
Unfortunately there is no cure for spasticity.
Learn to recognize spasticity symptoms so you’re free to begin your treatment journey.
Most people living with spasticity are very familiar with the symptoms that interfere with daily living.
Symptoms can range from mild muscle stiffness to severe spasticity that can cause significant pain.
), its time to talk with a doctor.
Physical therapy is a good place to start.
Stretching temporarily lessens the amount of spasticity on a particular joint of a limb, he says.
Electrical therapy can also be used to help reduce muscle stiffness and pain.
According to Dr. Diaz, the antigravity effect of water provides support and helps facilitate muscle movement.
Occupational therapy can help you perform everyday tasks.
), and going to work.
This may include one or more of the following:
4.
Splinting, casting, and bracing for support are also options.
Orthotics and splints are rigid or semirigid devices that provide support or restrict movement.
Braces and casts can help maintain and sometimes improve flexibility and range of motion in cases of increased spasticity.
However, Venus says, these must be combined with an appropriate stretching program to be effective.
Staying active is a biggie for keeping spasticity in check.
Of course, what you do will depend on your specific diagnosis and current symptoms.
In general, some safe, low-impact activities include walking, swimming, and riding a recumbent bicycle.
Here are a fewexercises for M.S.to get you started.
Finally, and most importantly, performing stretching exercises daily can reduce the effects of spasticity.
There are lots of medications for spasticity that can help too.
If you have severe spasticity, your doctor may also recommend using intrathecal baclofen pump therapy.
Alternative treatments are worth a try.
That said, some people find relief with alternative treatment methods like acupuncture and massage.
According to Dr. Diaz, massage may help manually lengthen the muscle and reduce pain and discomfort.
It can also enhance range of motion exercises.
Assistive devices and mobility aids can make a difference.
Living with spasticity can be challenging.
Fortunately there are a variety of assistive devices that can help with daily tasks and mobility.
These can allow you to better interact with and move about your environment.
Here are some to consider.
Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Living with spasticity can take a toll on your mental health and emotional well-being.
There are a variety of resources online and within local communities to help with mental and emotional needs.
Talk with your spasticity care team to figure out what you need.
Working with a comprehensive treatment team can help improve your symptoms and overall quality of life.
Physicians can use medications and procedures to work in tandem with treatments provided by therapists.
