Management of spasticity

Curr Opin Neurol. 1997 Dec;10(6):498-501. doi: 10.1097/00019052-199712000-00011.

Abstract

Recent open studies and two placebo-controlled studies confirm the potential role of Botulinum toxin A in the treatment of focal spasticity in adults and children. The effect of the toxin might not only be mediated by the paresis of extrafusal, but also intrafusal muscle fibres, thereby altering the afferent discharge. To enhance its effectiveness, an additional electrical stimulation seems promising. Most patients tolerate the neurolytic agent well. Two individuals, however, suffered from an intermittent tetraparesis after treatment. The repetitive magnetic stimulation and the use of gabapentin might be other new therapeutic options in the management of spasticity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Anti-Dyskinesia Agents / adverse effects
  • Anti-Dyskinesia Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Botulinum Toxins / adverse effects
  • Botulinum Toxins / therapeutic use*
  • Child
  • Humans
  • Muscle Spasticity / drug therapy*
  • Muscle Spasticity / pathology
  • Muscle Spasticity / physiopathology

Substances

  • Anti-Dyskinesia Agents
  • Botulinum Toxins