Pain in spasticity
Spasticity is a velocity-dependent increase in muscle tone, resulting from an upper motor neuron lesion (usually following a stroke or other central nervous system conditions).
This increased tone is often associated with pain, both from the muscle and tendon pain caused by sustained muscle contraction and from compression of nerve and vascular structures next to the muscles.
The cornerstone of treatment is a structured rehabilitation programme. In terms of procedures, ultrasound-guided botulinum toxin injections allow targeted delivery of a substance that reduces muscle tone. Peripheral nerve blocks can be useful both diagnostically (distinguishing muscle activation from soft-tissue stiffness) and therapeutically (increasing joint range of motion). Peripheral nerve radiofrequency and cryoablation are useful techniques for managing regional spasticity that does not respond to conservative measures.
Dr. Miguel Reis e Silva
Doctor at Sport Lisboa e Benfica.
Medical Director and Founder of Clínica Myalgia
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