[Early pharmacologic treatment with botulinum toxin A in post-stroke spasticity: consensus evidence-based...

Spasticity is a common complication that occurs in those patients that have suffered a stroke. To identify those patients at high risk of having post-stroke spasticity and to start treatment at early stages would probably benefit the patient. The key aspects in the early management of post-stroke spasticity were review and the clinical implications and strength of evidences were also considered. The document drafted by the study coordinators was subsequently reviewed and then a validated document was developed. The experts recommend defining early treatment of spasticity as one that begins before the first three months after stroke. The panel considers very important to identify the risk factors associated with the onset of spasticity, since this might reduce its impact. Additionally, the most common conditions subsidiaries of early treatment of both upper and lower limb are defined. The panel recommends that the treatment with botulinum toxin A must only be given by specialists with experience in diagnosis and management of spasticity. In conclusion, the treatment of focal spasticity in the first three months after stroke is indicated in certain situations. These recommendations help to standardize the early management of post-stroke spasticity, with the consequent support to clinicians and patients.