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Paradigms of Lower Extremity Electrical Stimulation Training After Spinal Cord Injury
Published on: February 1, 2018
Spasticity following spinal cord injury
Tiina Rekand1, Ellen Merete Hagen, Marit Grønning
1Neurology Department, Haukeland University Hospital, Norway. tiina.rekand@helse-bergen.no
Summary
Spinal cord injury (SCI) frequently causes spasticity, impacting daily life. Effective management involves regular assessment and tailored treatments, from exercise to surgery, to reduce functional impairment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Spinal Cord Injury Research
Background:
- Spasticity affects up to 70% of spinal cord injury (SCI) patients.
- Effective spasticity management is crucial for improving quality of life in SCI survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of spasticity management strategies.
- Focus on spasticity in the context of spinal cord injuries.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of PubMed using keywords: "spasticity" and "spasticity AND spinal cord injury".
- Inclusion of clinical experience and research findings.
Main Results:
- Spasticity can be generalized, regional, or localized, influenced by factors like bladder issues or infections.
- Treatment options range from physiotherapy and oral medications (e.g., baclofen) to botulinum toxin injections for localized spasticity.
- Intrathecal baclofen and surgical interventions are options for severe or intractable cases.
Conclusions:
- Regular assessment of spasticity in SCI patients is essential.
- Treatment strategies should be individualized based on spasticity's severity, location, and functional impact.
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