Manjula Ricciardi
Northland District Health Board
Title: Title: Botulinum toxin in post-stroke patients - Setting up a spasticity clinic: Experience and results
Biography
Biography: Manjula Ricciardi
Abstract
Spasticity is defined as a motor disorder characterized by a velocity-dependent increase in tonic stretch reflexes (muscle tone) with exaggerated tendon jerks, spasticity results from hyperexcitability of the stretch reflex, one component of upper motor neuron syndrome. This may affect limb position and activities of daily living. Spasticity contributes to disability in post stroke patients with a frequency of 41.6%. Botulinum toxin is a neurotoxin that acts on the neuromuscular junction at the presynaptic site. It inhibits the release of acetylcholine, thus leading to muscle weakness and reduced muscle tone. Botulinum toxin treatment in post-stroke upper and lower limb spasticity is a safe and effective .Procedure to decrease muscle tone and increase the range of motion. Post-stroke rehabilitation is important to reduce disability and Botulinum toxin type A injections is considered a gold, Standard treatment for focal spasticity.