![brain](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/brain.png)
Spasticity occurs when there’s a communication problem between the muscles and the
brain or spinal cord
- In people with multiple sclerosis (MS), the covering of the nerves in the brain and spinal cord that control movement are damaged
![movement](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/movement.png)
Spasticity causes a tightness or stiffness in the muscles and can prevent normal
movement
- Typically occurs in the legs, groin, and buttocks
- Some people experience spasticity in their back
- It can also affect the arms, hands, and even speech
![Managing Spasticity](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/managing_spasticity.png)
Managing spasticity
![](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/exercise.png)
Exercise: Helps maintain range of motion and prevent muscles from
contracting. You can work with physical and/or occupational therapists
![](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/medicines.png)
Medicines:
- Muscle relaxants (eg, baclofen)
- Benzodiazepines
- Alpha-2 adrenergic agonists
- Botulinum toxins
![](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/ortho.png)
Orthotic devices: Braces and splints can prevent spasms and reduce
muscle tightening
![](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/relax.png)
Relaxation techniques: Progressive muscle relaxation, yoga,
meditation, and deep breathing
![](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/massage.png)
Massage: Relaxes muscles, expands range of motion, and prevents
pressure sores
The symptoms of spasticity
![muscle_stiffness](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/muscle_stiffness.png)
Muscle stiffness
![muscle_spasms](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/muscle_spasms.png)
Muscle spasms
![Involuntary contractions](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/involuntary_contractions.png)
Involuntary contractions
![Muscle fatigue](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/muscle_fatigue.png)
Muscle fatigue
![Muscle and joint deformities](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/deformities.png)
Muscle and joint deformities
![Difficulty walking, sitting, and/or sleeping](https://www.lyvispah.com/public/assets/images/difficulty.png)
Difficulty walking, sitting, and/or sleeping