upper limb spasticity

Etiology

• stroke

Pathology

• upper motor neuron disease the affects the muscles in the arm

Clinical manifestations

• may cause stiffness in the muscles that move the elbow, wrist and fingers
• an arm pinned against the chest
• a flexed elbow or wrist that can't be straightened without discomfort or force
• a clenched hand in a tight, balled up fist

Management

• Botox is FDA-approved

More general terms

• spasticity