Spasticity in Legs: What is it, What Causes it, and How to Reduce it?

Spasticity in the legs is a common condition that can significantly impact the quality of life of individuals with various neurological disorders. Understanding what spasticity is, what causes it, and how to manage it can help those affected lead more comfortable and active lives. This post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of spasticity in the legs, its causes, and effective strategies for reducing it.

What is Spasticity in Legs?

Spasticity, also known as spastic hypertonia, is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in muscle tone or stiffness, which can interfere with movement or cause discomfort and pain. In simpler terms, it is the involuntary contraction of muscles, resulting in stiff, tight joints or involuntary movements. Spasticity can range from mild muscle stiffness to severe, debilitating muscle spasms.

What Causes Spasticity in Legs?

Spasticity is primarily caused by damage to the central nervous system, particularly the upper motor neurons, which disrupts communication between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. This disruption can occur due to various conditions, including but not limited to:

1. Spinal Cord Injury (SCI): Damage to the spinal cord can sever the communication pathways between the brain and muscles.
2. Stroke: A stroke can damage parts of the brain responsible for controlling muscle movement.
3. Cerebral Palsy (CP): CP results from damage to the immature, developing brain and often impairs motor control.
4. Multiple Sclerosis (MS): MS is a disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective covering of nerves, disrupting communications between the brain and the body.
5. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Like stroke and CP, TBI can result in long-term complications or disabilities, including spasticity.

Symptoms of Spasticity

The symptoms of spasticity can vary widely, but common signs include:

• Increased Muscle Tone: Constantly tight or stiff muscles.
• Exaggerated Reflexes (Hyperreflexia): Overactive or hyper-sensitive reflexes.
• Involuntary Movements: Muscle spasms and clonus (a series of repeated muscle contractions).
• Pain and Discomfort: Stiff muscles can be painful, especially when trying to move.
• Difficulty with Mobility and Coordination: Spasticity can make walking and other movements challenging.

How to Reduce Spasticity in Legs?

Managing spasticity involves a combination of treatments and strategies to improve muscle control and reduce discomfort. Here are several effective methods:

1. Stretching and Exercise

Regular stretching and exercise can help maintain muscle length and reduce stiffness. Physical therapists often design specific routines to target spastic muscles and improve range of motion.

• Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises can prevent muscles from becoming permanently shortened.
• Strengthening Exercises: Building strength in the muscles can improve overall mobility and function.

2. Medications

Various medications can help manage spasticity by relaxing muscles and reducing spasms. These include:

• Baclofen: A muscle relaxant that acts on the central nervous system.
• Diazepam: A sedative that helps reduce muscle spasms.
• Tizanidine: A muscle relaxant that works by slowing down the action of the brain and nervous system.
• Botulinum Toxin Injections: These can be injected directly into the spastic muscles to temporarily paralyze them and reduce spasticity.

3. Electrical Stimulation

Electrical stimulation can be an effective way to manage spasticity. By stimulating the muscles or nerves, it can help relax spasms and improve muscle function. At MYOLYN, our MyoCycle combines electrical stimulation with range of motion and strengthening exercises, offering a holistic approach to managing spasticity.

• How It Works: Electrical stimulation involves placing electrodes on the skin over the affected muscles. These electrodes deliver small electrical impulses that stimulate muscle contractions.
• Benefits: This method can reduce the frequency and intensity of spasms, improve muscle strength, and enhance blood circulation.

MyoCycle users like Sharon and Susan reduced their spasticity with electrical stimulation cycling – click their names to read their stories!

4. Orthotic Devices

Orthotic devices such as braces and splints can help manage spasticity by supporting proper joint alignment and reducing muscle tone.

• Ankle-Foot Orthoses (AFOs): These braces help keep the foot in a neutral position, preventing it from pointing downward and reducing spasticity.
• Knee Braces: These can help support the knee joint and prevent hyperextension.

5. Surgical Interventions

In severe cases, surgical interventions may be considered to reduce spasticity and improve mobility. These procedures are typically reserved for individuals who don’t respond to other treatments.

• Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR): This surgery involves cutting nerves in the spinal cord that are contributing to spasticity.
• Tendon Release Surgery: This procedure lengthens tendons to reduce muscle tightness.

Final Thoughts

Spasticity in legs can be a challenging condition to manage, but with the right approach, individuals can achieve significant improvements in their quality of life. At MYOLYN, we are committed to providing innovative solutions like the MyoCycle to help manage spasticity effectively. By combining electrical stimulation with exercise, we aim to empower individuals to lead more active and fulfilling lives.

For more information on managing spasticity and how the MyoCycle can help, please visit our website or contact us directly.

Incorporating these strategies into your routine, along with guidance from healthcare professionals, can help you manage spasticity more effectively and improve your overall quality of life. If you or someone you know is struggling with spasticity, reach out to us at MYOLYN for support and information on our cutting-edge solutions.