Spasticity






Common conditions that cause spasticity include multiple sclerosis, spastic diplegia, and traumatic brain injury. Multiple sclerosis is a condition in which people develop multiple areas of abnormal patches in the brain and/or spinal cord. Spastic diplegia is a neuromuscular condition causing spasticity and increased muscle tone in the lower extremities. Spasticity is a sign of upper motor neuron damage (e.g., upper motor neuron paralysis).

Upper motor neurons are neurons (nerve cells) in the motor cortex (an area of the brain located in middle, top part of the brain) that form pathways within the brain and from the brain to the spine. The word "spasticity" comes from the Greek word "spastikos" which means "drawing in." The "drawing in" part refers to muscle movements that shorten or are drawn in during spasticity.

Spasticity is a condition in which there is increased tension/tone in skeletal muscles, causing them to feel and appear tight (resistant to stretch, excessive contractions). Spasticity is usually associated with decreased reflexes when the skin is stimulated but increased reflexes when deep body structures, such as tendons, are stimulated. Tendons are groups of muscle fibers that attach muscles to a bone. Spasticity usually involves the tendon extensors of the legs and the flexors of the arms. Extensors are tendons that move body parts outwards, whereas flexors are tendons that move body parts inwards.

In slight spasticity, gross movements may be coordinated smoothly, but combined movements are impossible or appear uncoordinated. In moderate spasticity, movements require great effort and a lack of coordination is present. Many people with spasticity experience muscle weakness.
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