Spasticity Video Challenge: A Look at Methods for Addressing Difficult Cases

• Published in: PM & R 2017-07, Vol.9 (7), p.738-739
• Main Authors: Alter, Katharine E., MD, Gormley, Mark, MD, Patel, Atul T., MD, MHSA
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Combined Modality Therapy; Education, Medical, Continuing; Female; Humans; Male; Motor Neuron Disease - complications; Motor Neuron Disease - diagnosis; Muscle Spasticity - etiology; Muscle Spasticity - physiopathology; Muscle Spasticity - therapy; Neuromuscular Agents - therapeutic use; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Physical Therapy Modalities; Prognosis; Risk Assessment; Severity of Illness Index; Treatment Outcome
• ISSN: 1934-1482; 1934-1563
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pmrj.2017.06.012

Abstract As seen in this CME online activity (available at http://courses.elseviercme.com/spasticity/662e ), treatment of patients with spasticity due to upper motor neuron syndromes, including traumatic brain injury, stroke, and cerebral palsy, is multifaceted, involving chemodenervation, systemic medications, surgical therapy, rehabilitation efforts, and home care. Optimal care begins with the recognition that each patient’s impairments are unique and must be assessed carefully to determine the impact of muscle overactivity, loss of dexterity, and weakness on passive and active function in the context of the patients’ goals. While botulinum toxin plays a major role in providing symptomatic relief and functional improvement from hypertonia, it should rarely be used as a standalone treatment. This symposium archive will provide participants with the opportunity to assess remaining challenges in the care of patients with spasticity. In addition to reviewing appropriate use of chemodenervation and other treatments, this activity will also highlight techniques for improved communication between physicians and patients regarding the causes of functional impairments, individualized treatment options, customized goals of treatment, and the need for post-intervention rehabilitation and home programs via interactive video case presentations. The content for this activity is based on the satellite symposium, Spasticity Video Challenge: A Look at Methods for Addressing Difficult Cases , that was presented at the AAPM&R Annual Assembly in New Orleans, Louisiana on October 22, 2016.