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Spasticity

Spasticity offered in Houston, TX

If you have pain from contracted muscles or joints due to spasticity, you can find treatment solutions at MedCare Clinics. The triple board-certified physician and the medical team offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations for those who experience persistent muscle pain after a brain injury or stroke or due to conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS). They customize a treatment plan using medications, physical therapy, and other strategies to support your long-term muscle health. Call the Houston, Texas, office to schedule a spasticity consultation or book an appointment online today. 

Spasticity Q&A

What is spasticity?

Spasticity is a condition that causes muscle stiffness and uncontrollable muscle contractions, issues that can affect your overall function and speech. Many people with spasticity also experience persistent pain that limits their movements.

Damage to the nerve pathways in your brain or spinal cord can trigger spasticity symptoms. This damage can be the result of:

  • Stroke
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries

The MedCare Clinics team specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of spasticity in adults and children. The goals of their customized treatment plan are to relieve your existing symptoms and prevent more serious complications.

When should I seek medical care for spasticity?

You should schedule a diagnostic evaluation at MedCare Clinics if you have spasticity symptoms like:

  • Muscle spasms
  • Muscle stiffness and pain
  • Rapid muscle contractions
  • Involuntary leg crossing
  • Joints stuck in a fixed position

These symptoms can range from mild to severe. Uncontrollable muscle spasms may interfere with physical activities and your ability to work.

The medical team assesses your symptoms and reviews your medical history. They may also request bloodwork or other diagnostic tests to rule out infections and other health issues that can affect your muscle health. They customize a care plan to address existing symptoms and prevent additional complications.

How is spasticity treated?

Your treatment plan for spasticity depends on the type of symptoms you experience and their severity.

The MedCare Clinics team may prescribe medications that relax your muscles to prevent cramping and pain. They may also refer you for physical therapy to stretch your muscles and increase your range of motion.

Injections of Botox® can also provide relief of spasticity symptoms. This prescription medication temporarily disrupts nerve signals from traveling to the brain so contracted, stiff muscles can loosen.

In severe cases, the providers may refer you for surgery to repair or destroy damaged nerves. The team can coordinate your care before and after surgery to ensure you heal properly. You may need to continue with physical therapy and stretching exercises at home to keep your muscles healthy and functioning optimally.

Call MedCare Clinics to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for spasticity symptoms or book an appointment online today.