[Spasticity and multiple sclerosis]

Spasticity is a common symptom in MS patients. It is easy to recognize and evaluate spasticity at rest. The efficacy of numerous treatments has been well documented. Nevertheless, it is difficult, particularly in MS patients, to assess the functional disability due to spasticity and the functional benefit due to treatment. This is why it is appears more appropriate to use therapeutic tests with transitory effects such as anesthetic blocks in case of focal spasticity or intrathetical baclofen in case of diffuse spasticity. It is also possible to use reversible treatments such as botulinum toxin injections before proposing section of a peripheral nerve.