Spasticity:
Spasticity is a symptom and characteristic of certain neurological conditions. It causes abnormal muscle tone, often at rest and for certain muscles to contract all at once. It ranges in severity and can affect movement and speech. It can be associated with discomfort or pain.
The Plymouth Neurophysio team are specialists in assessing and monitoring spasticity levels and will use certain exercises, stretches and postural management techniques to help manage spasticity levels and reduce the associated pain and discomfort. Where appropriate, we will liaise with an individual's medical team (which may include a Rehab Consultant or Neurologist) for medication review in relation to anti-spasticity medications and, in some cases, consideration for Botulinum toxin injections.
Pain and Discomfort:
Individuals with a neurological condition will often report areas of pain and discomfort. This can be due to joint, muscle or soft-tissue changes as a result of altered movement patterns and posture. It can also be due to altered sensation and changes to brain signals responsible for perceiving sensation and pain.
The aim of neurological physiotherapy is always to minimise pain and promote comfort and increased mobility. We will look to try and understand the root cause of the pain wherever possible. We can then address some of the causes through postural advice, exercises, stretches and sometimes massage and soft-tissue techniques. We have Massage Therapists on our team who are able to provide massage to assist with pain relief and relaxation.
Where pain is preventing progress with rehabilitation and affecting quality of life, we will liaise with medical professionals regarding pain medication and management and then carefully monitor a patient's pain levels following any medication changes.