What Are the Treatments for Spasticity in MS?

Spasticity is an occasional to frequent symptom for sufferers of multiple sclerosis (MS). Spasticity can refer to involuntary muscle spasms or stiffness. These actions can occur in the hips, knees, quadriceps and adductors. While treatments have had some degree of success, it is important to keep in mind that every case of spasticity is different. As a result, different treatments will work better for different people.

Physical and Occupational Therapy

• Physical therapists can instruct the sufferer in specific movements and exercises that can relieve the symptoms of spasticity. These exercises can relax and stretch shortened muscle fibers, increase the circulation of joints and improve circulation. Improving these traits can reduce or completely relieve spasticity. Occupational therapists provide modifications in a sufferer's day-to-day life that reduce the chances of spasticity occurring. These modifications include assistive devices, grooming aids and changes to routine.

Medication

• There are some medications that are used specifically for spasticity and there are others that are used to control symptoms in certain situations. Baclofen (Lioresal) is a spinal muscle relaxant that restores flexibility and makes physical therapy more effective. Tizanide (Zanaflex) calms spasms, relaxes muscles and has a strong safety record. Baclofen and Tizanidine can be taken together. Diazepam (Valium) can be given in small doses to calm spasms and anxiety. Gabapentin (Neurontin) is used with epilepsy and can reduce certain types of spasticity and pain. Dantrolene (Dantrium) is used when other drugs are ineffective and it works by partially paralyzing muscle. These medications, along with other treatments like Levetiracetam and Botox, all have side effects and a doctor should be consulted to find the best fit.

Avoid Triggers

• There are many triggers of spasticity that can be avoided or accounted for. Avoid wearing tight clothing and tight shoes. Other issues like constipation, poor postur, or viral and bacterial infections can lead to spastic conditions. For this reason, optimal health through a good diet and a steady exercise program with relaxation, yoga, meditation and deep-breathing exercises is important. Other triggers include cold temperatures and high humidity. A sufferer of spasticity should stretch thoroughly before going out in cold weather or high humidity to avoid symptoms.

Injections and Surgery

• Phenol, a nerve-blocking agent, can be injected into the body when oral medication has not been very effective. This method is difficult to administer, however, as it can be hard to find the appropriate injection sites and it requires repetitions every three to six months. Surgery is the last-ditch effort treatment of spasticity and it can involve the severing of nerve roots (rhizotomy) or tendons (tenotomy). The relief is permanent but the surgery also leaves the tendons and nerves permanently severed. All other treatment methods are typically attempted before surgery is considered.