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Spasticity

From , former About.com Guide

Updated September 10, 2007

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Question: Spasticity
What is spasticity?
Answer: Spasticity is a condition where various muscles are in a continuous state of contraction. This condition results in constant stiffness or tightness of the muscles. Spasticity results when there is damage to the portion of the brain or spinal cord that controls voluntary movement. Spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, brain trauma, and head injury are just a few disorders that may result in spasticity.
Symptoms of spasticity can include increased muscle tone, exaggerated reflexes, muscle spasms, involuntary muscular contractions, crossing of legs when walking, and decreased joint movement. Spasticity can vary from mild muscle stiffness to severe painful spasms.
Unfortunately, spasticity can interfere with activities of daily living and walking.
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