Spasticity Management: Clinical Applications

Presented by Andrea E. Ecsedy

Video Runtime: 72 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 37 Minutes

This course will provide the practitioner with clear definitions of hypertonicity and upper motor neuron syndrome. Evidence in support of specific interventions will be presented, as well as negative evidence for commonly used treatment strategies to manage spasticity. Several spasticity measurement scales will be presented, in addition to clinical decision-making and treatment selection strategies.

Meet your instructor

A smiling person with short hair and glasses wearing a red top is in front of a wavy white background.

Andrea E. Ecsedy

Andrea Ecsedy, PT, DPT, NCS, is a board-certified specialist in neurologic physical therapy with over 40 years of clinical experience. Her clinical focus includes balance and vestibular dysfunction, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and other neurologic diseases. She has taught as adjunct faculty in several university physical…

Read full bio

Chapters & learning objectives

Spasticity Defined

1. Spasticity Defined

The chapter will cover the evolution of the definition of spasticity and what the present consensus is on how to classify and define this impairment. Video examples of different types of hypertonicity will be presented, as well as the difference between these clinical presentations.

Clinical Scales

2. Clinical Scales

This chapter will review several clinical scales that are validated and recommended for measuring spasticity. How tone is affected by posture will also be covered and special tests suggested. Differentiation between contracture and rigidity will be discussed and video examples presented. Advantages and disadvantages of spasticity will be reviewed, followed by a brief discussion of how to determine whether it should or should not be addressed.

Interventions for Spasticity and Evidence on Spasticity Management

3. Interventions for Spasticity and Evidence on Spasticity Management

General, focal, reversible, and permanent interventions will be discussed in detail, as well as advantages and disadvantages of each option. Evidence supporting or refuting different interventions to include oral medications, injection therapies, intrathecal baclofen, and surgery will also be presented.

ICF Model, Treatment Recommendations, and Neuroplasticity

4. ICF Model, Treatment Recommendations, and Neuroplasticity

This chapter will outline a decision-making framework for the interventions discussed in the previous chapter. How this all relates to the ICF model is presented. Neuroplasticity research and how appropriate timing of treatment for spasticity falls in line with the evidence in the area of neurological recovery will also be covered.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about Medbridge courses.