Can Spasticity Be Prevented? Insights from Preclinical and Clinical Evidence

Spasticity is a common and disabling consequence of central nervous system injury that evolves progressively over time. Although traditionally viewed as an unavoidable sequela, emerging preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that spasticity may be preventable or mitigated through early, targeted interventions. This article explores the pathophysiology and natural history of spasticity across multiple conditions (stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis), reviews early identification strategies, and critically examines preclinical and clinical data supporting spasticity prevention.