Spasticity-Related Pain
Comprehensive management of muscle spasticity and pain
Understanding Spasticity-Related Pain
Spasticity is characterized by abnormal muscle stiffness, involuntary muscle contractions, and exaggerated reflexes resulting from damage to the central nervous system pathways. It commonly occurs in neurological conditions including cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injury. Spasticity affects approximately 12 million people worldwide.
The pain associated with spasticity arises from sustained muscle contractions causing muscle fatigue, joint stress from abnormal positioning, and secondary complications. Management requires a comprehensive approach addressing both the spasticity and the pain, with goals including reducing muscle tone, preventing complications, and improving function.
Common Causes
Cerebral Palsy
Brain damage before, during, or shortly after birth affecting motor control
Multiple Sclerosis
Demyelination of central nervous system pathways disrupting motor signals
Stroke
Brain injury causing upper motor neuron damage and loss of inhibitory control
Spinal Cord Injury
Damage to spinal pathways interrupting communication between brain and muscles
Traumatic Brain Injury
Direct brain trauma affecting motor control centers
Other Neurological Conditions
Including ALS, hereditary spastic paraplegia, or brain tumors
Symptoms
Muscle stiffness and increased muscle tone
Involuntary muscle spasms or jerking movements
Painful muscle cramps, particularly at night
Abnormal posture or positioning of limbs
Joint pain from sustained abnormal positions
Difficulty with voluntary movements
Contractures in severe, untreated cases
Pressure sores from inability to change positions
Advanced Treatment Options
Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy
Surgically implanted pump delivering baclofen directly to spinal fluid
Botulinum Toxin Injections
Targeted injections reducing tone and pain for 3-6 months
Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy
Neurosurgical procedure selectively cutting sensory nerve roots
Phenol or Alcohol Neurolysis
Chemical nerve blocks for focal spasticity when botulinum toxin insufficient
Orthopedic Surgery
Tendon lengthening, transfers, or osteotomies to correct deformities
Functional Electrical Stimulation
Electrical stimulation to strengthen antagonist muscles
Comprehensive Spasticity Programs
Multidisciplinary approach combining medications, therapy, and interventions
Get Expert Treatment for Spasticity-Related Pain
Schedule a consultation with our pain management specialists to discuss personalized treatment options.