The effect of epidural application of opioids on spasticity of spinal origin.
The effect of epidural opioids on spinal spasticity is demonstrated in a patient suffering from multiple sclerosis. Flexor reflex spasms are abolished and muscle tone is markedly reduced by the epidural administration of morphine 3 mg or fentanyl 0.1 mg. In contrast, the oligosynaptic motor responses and voluntary movements were unaffected. This is documented by EMG-recordings. Sensory perception thresholds were elevated for pain, but unchanged for touch and vibration sense. Effects on enkephalinergic interneurons on the spinal level are discussed.
D004824:Epidural Space / Q000502:physiology*; D005283:Fentanyl / Q000008:administration & dosage; D006801:Humans; D009020:Morphine / Q000008:administration & dosage; D009103:Multiple Sclerosis / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013035:Spasm / Q000503:physiopathology; D013115:Spinal Canal / Q000502:physiology*; D013116:Spinal Cord / Q000187:drug effects / Q000503:physiopathology*
D009020:Morphine; D005283:Fentanyl