Dealing with spasticity can be a painful and challenging experience, but residents of Tamarac and Boca Raton now have a dedicated ally in the fight against this condition. Anesthesia Pain Care Consultants (APCC) is extending a helping hand to individuals suffering from spasticity, regardless of its underlying cause.
Understanding Spasticity and Its Causes
Spasticity is characterized by abnormal muscle tightness caused by prolonged muscle contraction, often resulting from damage to the brain, spinal cord, or motor nerves. This condition is commonly associated with various neurological disorders, such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
Impact on Muscle Movement and Identifying Symptoms
Spasticity wreaks havoc on muscle movement patterns, causing certain muscles to involuntarily contract and resist being stretched. The effects can manifest as increased muscle tone, muscle spasms, rapid muscle contractions known as clonus, abnormal posture, and more. Symptoms may vary in intensity, ranging from mild tightness to severe, painful spasms.
Diagnosis and Testing at APCC
Anesthesia Pain Care Consultants offers thorough diagnostic testing to assess the presence and severity of spasticity. In cases where the cause remains unclear, advanced techniques such as MRI scans are employed to determine the source and extent of nerve damage.
Effective Treatments for Spasticity Pain Relief
For those seeking relief from spasticity, APCC provides an array of treatment options. Non-drug alternatives like physical and occupational therapy, massage, temperature therapy, electric stimulation, and biofeedback are offered alongside medication-based approaches, including muscle relaxants and anticonvulsants. In more severe cases, the team may consider intrathecal therapy or surgical procedures like tendon release.
Managing Spasticity Pain in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injuries
APCC employs a comprehensive approach to manage spasticity in individuals dealing with spinal cord injuries. This multi-faceted strategy involves exercises taught by expert physical and occupational therapists to maintain range of motion, oral medications to alleviate muscle spasticity, and intrathecal therapy facilitated by an implantable pump and catheter system. Additionally, injections like botulinum toxin or phenol/alcohol into affected muscles may prove beneficial. In select cases, neurosurgery or orthopedic procedures may be recommended to release tightened tendons or destroy motor nerves, effectively stopping spasticity.
A Trusted Partner in the Pursuit of Relief
At the helm of Anesthesia Pain Care Consultants is Dr. Ira Fox, leading a team of compassionate professionals with a long-standing commitment to delivering exceptional care since 1996. With over three decades of experience in the field, we assure patients that they are in capable hands.
APCC: A Beacon of Hope for Spasticity and Chronic Pain
Anesthesia Pain Care Consultants recognizes the numerous challenges faced by patients dealing with spasticity, acute and chronic pain, and other debilitating conditions. With unwavering dedication, our team stands ready to support individuals on their journey to relief. Embracing state-of-the-art treatments, including specialized injection therapy and physical therapy, APCC is committed to addressing the root cause of pain and helping patients rediscover a life free from constant discomfort.
