Spasticity management

Spasticity is a condition that results in continuous muscle stiffness, spasms and involuntary contractions following damage to the brain or spinal cord. Spasticity can be a very painful and debilitating condition if it is not managed correctly. Liverpool orthotics provide an extensive range of 'off the shelf' and custom made splints that are specifically designed to effectively manage spasticity. Splints can be used to help prevent joint deformity and encourage a stretch to tight muscles.

What conditions can cause muscle spasticity?

Conditions that commonly cause muscle spasticity are;

How can Liverpool Orthotics help manage muscle spasticity?

Spasticity can affect every individual differently but there is always a common goal, to ensure the spasticity does not result in pain or deformity. At Liverpool orthotics we work closely with our patients to understand their individual circumstances and to establish the best form of treatment in order to achieve their goals. We can provide

Specialist stretching splints

The splints can either be custom made or 'off the shelf' products that are specifically designed to resist the spactic muscles acting on a joint to prevent muscle tightness. The splints are commonly used on the wrist, elbows, knees and ankles. The splints can either provide a static or dynamic stretch. They are always removable and are often most effective when used in conjunction with other treatments such as botox or serial casting.

Serial casting

Serial casting is a hard resin type plaster which is applied to the limb affected by spasticity and is not removable. Once the serial cast has been applied, and before it sets hard, the affected limb is stretched into the best achievable position. The casts are normally removed every week and the position of the limb stretched again and a new cast put on. This process normally lasts for 3-6 weeks depending on the amount of joint deformity that requires correction.

Botox injection

The last 20 years has seen a significant increase in botox injections for the effective management of muscle spasticity. Botox is injected directly into the muscles that are responsible for the spasticity. Botox relaxes muscle spasticity by blocking the chemical signals between nerves and muscles that makes the muscle contract.

Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy treatment (SDR)

Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy is a form of treatment most commonly performed on children who have significant lower limb spasticity. The nerve root that is most responsible for the spascity in the muscles is cut. This can lead to a significant reduction in spasticity. After the surgery specific splints are required at each stage of the rehabilitation. Liverpool Orthotics have worked with many children who have had SDR treatment and are able to provide the correct course of splint treatment to enable effective rehabilitation.

What is the process?

The first step is to arrange an assessment with one of our experienced orthotists at one of our clinics or at home. The orthotist will assess your current spasticity issues and advice on the most effective treatment plan.

If a splint is required then the orthotist will take casts, scans and measurements of the limb in question. If botox or serial casting is required then a series of further appointments will be put in place.

To enquire about Liverpool Orthotics range of Spasticity management treatment, or to book an appointment, contact us today on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk

To arrange an appointment call Liverpool Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@liverpool-orthotics.co.uk