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Updated: May 11, 2026
11:06
Bilateral Assessment of the Corticospinal Pathways of the Ankle Muscles Using Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Published on: February 19, 2019
Botulinum toxin in gait dysfunction due to ankle clonus: a case series
Siobhan McGuinness1, Josephine Hillan, Sheena B Caldwell
1Regional Acquired Brain Injury Unit, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, Northern Ireland, UK. siobhana.mcguinness@belfasttrust.hscni.net
Neurorehabilitation
|May 8, 2013
Summary
Botulinum toxin (Btx) significantly improved walking speed and reduced assistance needs in neurological patients with ankle clonus. This treatment offers a promising option for managing gait dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Background:
- Gait dysfunction, particularly due to ankle clonus, significantly impacts mobility and independence in neurological patients.
- Ankle clonus is a common condition resulting from upper motor neuron lesions, leading to spasticity and impaired walking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of Botulinum toxin (Btx) injections in improving gait dysfunction caused by ankle clonus in neurological patients.
- To assess changes in walking speed and the level of assistance required for ambulation post-Btx treatment.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case note review was conducted on 11 neurological patients treated with Btx for ankle clonus at the Regional Acquired Brain Injury Unit.
- Data collected included patient demographics, diagnosis, time since neurological insult, walking speed, and assistance level before and after Btx administration.
Main Results:
- Significant improvements in walking speed were observed at 4-6 weeks (P = 0.006) and 14-16 weeks (P = 0.005) post-Btx injections in 10 out of 11 patients.
- Eight patients demonstrated a reduced need for walking assistance.
- Subjective reports indicated improvements in pain, gait pattern, and reduced 'toe clawing'.
Conclusions:
- Botulinum toxin (Btx) is effective in managing ankle clonus in neurological patients, positively impacting gait.
- Btx treatment leads to enhanced walking speed and decreased dependence on assistance, improving functional mobility.
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