Spasticity treatment methods vary from patient to patient and are largely dependent on the specific symptoms of the individual. A doctor can help the patient choose the best treatment method or combination of treatments on an individual basis. Some of the more common spasticity treatment options include the use of oral medications, intramuscular injections, and physical therapy. Some patients may achieve maximum relief by combining various treatment methods. In the more severe cases, spasticity treatment may involve surgical intervention.
Oral medications are among the most commonly used spasticity treatment methods. Medications known as benzodiazepines can often help reduce the occurrence of painful muscle spasms, increase range of motion, and relive anxiety. Dantrolene sodium can improve muscle tone and decrease muscle spasms, often with fewer side effects than other oral medications. Tizanidine may be used to treat symptoms in patients who have multiple sclerosis or who have suffered a spinal cord injury. The side effects of these medications may be too difficult on some patients, requiring different types of spasticity treatment.
Spinal cord injections may be used for spasticity treatment, either alone or in combination with oral medications. Baclofen, clonidine, and morphine are commonly used in these injections. This type of injection allows the medication to quickly move directly to the brain, resulting in faster symptom relief than is offered by oral medications. Botox injections may also be given every few weeks in order to provide symptom relief.
Physical therapy can be very useful as a form of spasticity treatment. Keeping the muscles moving in a safe manner can help to prevent some of the spasms and other symptoms. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the physical therapist can help design an exercise program for home use or manually move the muscles in the office if the patient is unable to assist. Supportive devices such as braces or casts may also be helpful for some patients.
Surgical intervention is frequently used as a form of spasticity treatment. There are several types of surgical procedures available, depending on the severity of the symptoms as well as the overall health of the patient. Surgery to lengthen the affected tendons is among the most common surgery types. Spinal cord surgery may be needed in some cases to cut the small roots found in the lower spine. In some cases, surgical intervention is aimed at correcting bone alignment, particularly involving the thigh bone.
