Best Doctors for Spasticity in Chennai

Types/ Stages of Spasticity

Spasticity can vary greatly among individuals based on the underlying cause and affected body parts. It can be classified into:

• Focal Spasticity: This type affects a specific muscle group or limb.

• Multifocal Spasticity: Multiple muscle groups in a particular region of the body are affected.

• Generalised Spasticity: The entire body is affected by this type. This is the least common type of spasticity.

Symptoms of Spasticity

People dealing with spasticity may experience various symptoms which include:

• Increased muscle tone and stiffness

• Exaggerated reflexes, lead to uncontrollable muscle spasms and contractions

• Difficulty in moving or controlling limbs

• Pain or discomfort

• Impaired gait and mobility

• Difficulty with daily tasks and self-care

Tests to Diagnose Spasticity

To accurately diagnose spasticity, doctors and spasticity specialists at Apollo Hospitals may recommend several tests such as:

• Neurological Examination: To assess nerve health

• Electromyography (EMG): To measure electrical activity in muscles

• Nerve Conduction Studies: To check the speed and strength of nerve signals

• Imaging Tests: To view the brain and spinal cord

• Laboratory Tests: To rule out other conditions

Treatment or Surgery Options for Spasticity at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

The doctors and surgeons for spasticity treatment at Apollo Hospitals in Chennai suggest a combination of treatments based on the condition’s severity:

• Medications: Medications like oral drugs (baclofen, tizanidine, benzodiazepines) and botulinum toxin injections can be administered to reduce muscle stiffness and spasms.

• Physical and Occupational Therapy: This involves stretching, range-of-motion exercises, and strengthening exercises.

• Surgery: Surgical options like selective dorsal rhizotomy (cutting specific nerve roots to reduce spasticity) and intrathecal baclofen pump (implanting a pump to deliver baclofen directly to the spinal cord) may be considered in severe cases.

• Assistive Devices: Assistive devices like braces and walkers can help improve mobility.