“If someone out there thinks they may have spasticity, they should communicate with their doctor and let them know. I think it’s worth it.”
—Syreeta, stroke survivor experiencing spasticity.
Spasticity is a distinct condition that may occur due to a stroke, neurological (brain) disorder, or injury to the brain or spinal cord. Because spasticity is separate from your primary condition, it may require specialty care that is not part of your current recovery plan.
The most common causes of spasticity are:
There are a range of symptoms that may make simple tasks like shaking hands or brushing your teeth more difficult. They include:
Some signs are:
Bent elbow, bent wrist, clenched fist, turned in foot, curled toes.
Some doctors may already be a part of your care team, like a neurologist and physical therapist. Adding someone to your care team who specializes in the full range of spasticity treatments, like a physiatrist, can make a difference.
Physiatrists are physicians who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) for people of all ages. Physiatrists are experts in the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. They work with people over the course of their life and specialize in treatments that aim to restore function that may have been lost through injury, illness, or disabling conditions.
Different doctors have different expertise. Care teams are most effective when multiple specialties work together to treat spasticity.
What should you and your team’s spasticity treatment goals be?
Start a conversation with your doctor to find the right treatment plan for you.
Physical or occupational therapies to help improve function and independence
Oral medications to relax muscles in the entire body
Injections for when spasticity has developed in areas of the body
Learn more about a spasticity treatment option.
If your care team is missing a doctor who has experience in treating spasticity, the locator tool from the American Academy of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation can help find one near you.
Evaluating the impacts of spasticity can help identify treatment goals.
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how difficult it may be to straighten, bend, or flex your arms and legs due to muscle stiffness or tightness.
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how spasticity is making everyday tasks difficult or impossible, such as picking up objects, dressing, or walking up and down stairs.
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deserve more. Ask your doctor about treatments beyond physical therapy that may help manage your spasticity.
Use this guide to discuss treatment goals during your next doctor’s appointment.
Get more information on symptoms, causes, and diagnosis.
Learn more about managing daily life with spasticity.
Learn more about symptoms to watch, how to work with a care team, and managing self-care.
