Article

The objective of this study was to present an overview of the prevalence of
spasticity after stroke as well as of test instruments and treatments. Recent
studies show that spasticity occurs in 20%-30% of all stroke victims and in less
than half of those with pareses. Although spasticity may occur in paretic
patients after stroke, muscle weakness is more likely to be the reason for the
pareses. Spasticity after stroke is more common in the upper than the lower
limbs, and it seems to be more common among younger than older people. To
determine the nature of passive stretch, electromyographic equipment is needed.
However, the Modified Ashworth Scale, which measures the sum of the biomechanical
and neural components in passive stretch, is the most common instrument used to
grade spasticity after stroke. Treatment of spasticity with physiotherapy is
recommended, although its beneficial effect is uncertain. The treatment of
spasticity with botulinum toxin in combination with physiotherapy is suggested to
improve functioning in patients with severe spasticity. A task-specific approach
rather than a neurodevelopmental approach in assessing and treating a patient
with spasticity after stroke seems to be preferred.

Langue : ANGLAIS