Q. Why consider managing spasticity? Select the crosses next to the labels to find out the possible the benefits of spasticity management.
Considerations in the management of spasticity
- Side effects from medications (medications may impact on patients known risk factors and may cause distressing side effects)
- Tone may be used to allow function (if you reduce the patient’s overall tone then this may reduce their functional ability, as they may use the tone in other muscle groups to achieve tasks e.g. standing to transfer)
- Spasticity may not be an issue to the patient (the patient may not identify it as a problem and may not wish intervention)
Q. Why consider managing spasticity?
Cosmetic – The appearance of the limb can cause distress, low mood and reduction in a patients activity and participation.
Impact on function and participation – The loss of activity may reduce the ability to self care and function e.g. dress.
Hygiene – Adductor spasm (tight muscles on the inside of the thigh that contract pulling the legs together) or a tight flexed hand may cause difficulties with self care and hygiene; this could lead to skin breakdown and infections.
Interfering with sleep – Abnormal limb posturing can cause discomfort and loss of sleep.
Contracture/deformity – These can impact on appearance and functional ability.
Pain – Pain can cause distress, low mood and loss of sleep.
May impact on rehabilitation – Loss of movement due to spasticity may prevent participation in rehabilitation and reduce the potential for further recovery.
Page last reviewed: 22 Apr 2021
