Spasticity Treatment Exercises

Nerve damage to injury or illness, such as cerebral palsy, stroke or multiple sclerosis, can lead to spasticity, also known as stiff or tense muscles. Spasticity can lead to muscle weakness and loss of function. According to Ohio State University's Wexner Medical Center, spasticity symptoms have different possible treatments, including muscle stretching, physical therapy and exercises.

Exercises to relieve spasticity
How to relieve spasticity? Soft stretching exercises can help release the tightness on the affected muscle. A study published in Sports Medicine suggests that relaxation techniques, including progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, yoga and meditation, can help reduce the density of the muscle. Tai Chi and aquatic therapy in cold water also belong to the therapeutic exercises used by physiotherapists in working with patients.

Improving flexibility
Racks improve flexibility and, in turn, lead to reduced spasticity and pain. According to sports medicine, stretching must be slow and gentle with rhythmic and repetitive motion. Avoid exercises that can exacerbate spasticity, such as pointing the toes. A full range of motion should be used in the affected limb and surrounding muscles. Lining of the limbs and holding the stretch for 60 seconds for the greatest benefit for the muscles involved.

Strengthening of muscles
Muscles weaken with spasticity and reduce the ability to move. In the May-June 2011 issue of Stroke rehabilitation, Lynne Romiser Logan, a physiotherapist, points out that the exercise does not increase spasticity and improves motion. Stroke-patient examination shows that strength training is an important part of physiotherapy and rehabilitation.

Strategies to improve the function
Objectives for improved function may be specific fine motor control and coordination. Research published in the topic of rehabilitation of the stroke shows that using the muscles involved by limiting the functional limb helps to improve function as long as the exercise is not intensive. In addition, Logan points out that the use of nerve stimulation and orthopedic braces improves function in the lower body, since research does not show significant benefit to the upper body, including the functions of the grip and release functions.

Walking
Spasticity can affect your ability to walk. According to a study in the May-June 2011 issue of Journal of Rehabilitation Research & Development, walking as physiotherapy helps increase the overall strength of the leg. The authors point out that physiotherapy done while lying flat on your back simulates upright upright and increases the strength of the hip flexors for walking.