spasticity

Introduction

Abnormally increased tone in a muscle.

Etiology

• upper motor neuron disease
  • stroke
  • multiple sclerosis

Clinical manifestations

• increased tone, clonus, spasms, spastic dystonia & co-contractions
• velocity-dependent
• sudden release after reaching maximum velocity (clasp-knife phenomenon)
• predominantly affects anti-gravity muscles
  • upper limb flexors more than extensors
  • lower limb extensors more than flexors
• distinct from rigidity & paratonia (2 other types of increased muscle tone)
• may be painful
• may be exacerbated by comormid factors
  • constipation, urinary tract infections, pressure ulcers

Management

• antispasmodic
  • baclofen, tizanidine, dantrolene
• botulinum toxin (Botox) injections

More general terms

• sign/symptom

More specific terms

• upper limb spasticity

Additional terms

• muscle tone
• spastic paraplegia