Orthopaedic Management of Spasticity

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Orthopaedic Surgery
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Spasticity is a prevalent neurological condition affecting individuals with multiple sclerosis, stroke, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, and spinal cord injuries.
• Effective management of spasticity is crucial for reducing patient burden and preventing secondary complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the comprehensive management of spasticity, emphasizing the role of orthopaedic surgery in addressing its sequelae.
• To highlight the collaborative approach involving multiple medical specialties for optimal patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Review of non-operative interventions: stretching, splinting, postural management, physical therapy, medications, and botulinum toxin injections.
• Discussion of orthopaedic surgical interventions for spasticity-related complications such as joint contractures, hip dislocations, scoliosis, and limb deformities.

Main Results:

• Non-operative methods offer symptomatic relief and functional improvement for spasticity.
• Surgical management is often essential for correcting structural deformities and improving quality of life.
• Multidisciplinary care, integrating orthopaedic surgery with rehabilitation specialists, neurologists, and therapists, optimizes functional recovery and independence.

Conclusions:

• A combined approach of non-operative and surgical interventions, led by orthopaedic surgeons in collaboration with other specialists, is vital for managing spasticity.
• Orthopaedic management of spasticity sequelae significantly contributes to maintaining patient function, independence, and reducing long-term complications.