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Management of spasticity in children with cerebral palsy

Ann Tilton1

  • 1Department of Neurology, Louisiana State University Health and Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA. atilto@aol.com

Seminars in Pediatric Neurology
|June 9, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Treatments for cerebral palsy spasticity aim to improve function and comfort. Options range from therapies and medications to surgery, often combined for best results in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurology
  • Rehabilitation Medicine
  • Orthopedic Surgery

Background:

  • Cerebral palsy (CP) frequently causes spasticity and muscle overactivity.
  • This muscle overactivity can significantly impair a child's function, ease of care, comfort, and body image.
  • Effective management is crucial for improving quality of life in children with CP.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide a comprehensive overview of current treatment strategies for spasticity in cerebral palsy.
  • To review significant research findings supporting the efficacy of various interventions.
  • To guide clinicians in selecting and combining treatments tailored to individual pediatric needs.

Main Methods:

  • Review of established and emerging treatment modalities for pediatric cerebral palsy spasticity.
  • Inclusion of allied health therapies, exercise, casting, and constraint-induced therapy.
  • Analysis of pharmacological and surgical interventions including chemodenervation, intrathecal baclofen, selective dorsal rhizotomy, and orthopedic surgery.

Main Results:

  • Each treatment approach has demonstrated varying degrees of efficacy in managing spasticity.
  • Combination therapies often yield superior outcomes compared to single interventions.
  • Evidence supports the tailored application of treatments based on individual patient profiles and needs.

Conclusions:

  • A multimodal approach is often necessary for optimal management of cerebral palsy spasticity.
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration is key to integrating diverse treatment strategies effectively.
  • Continued research is vital to refine existing treatments and explore novel therapeutic avenues.

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