title: Spasticity Management After Stroke.
abstract: Many poststroke survivors develop spasticity. Spasticity is usually associated with other neurologic impairments, in particular paresis, which complicate the evaluation of its consequences and of treatment outcomes. The diagnosis and the assessment of spasticity are based on clinical examination, in particular resistance to passive movement and abnormal involuntary muscle contraction. Nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments are commonly combined to manage spasticity, based on prespecified goals. There is evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of most medications commonly used to treat spasticity; however, more evidence is needed regarding functional outcomes and the impact of combining treatment modalities.
authors.affiliation: Mellen Center Rehabilitation Services, The Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Avenue/Desk U10, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA. Electronic address: BETHOUF@ccf.org.
authors.forename: Francois
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Bethoux
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D009128:Muscle Spasticity / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D009465:Neuromuscular Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D020521:Stroke / Q000503:physiopathology*; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation
chemical_list: D009465:Neuromuscular Agents
keywords: Outcome measures; Rehabilitation; Spasticity; Stroke; Symptom management