Complications of spasticity

Spasticity most often strikes the muscles needed to keep you standing upright, like those of your feet, groin, thigh, calf and back. Be aware of factors that might aggravate the problem. For example, an untreated bladder infection can contribute to spasticity.

Mild spasticity may affect how you walk, interfering with proper motion, or it may take you more effort to move and limit how far you can go. Severe spasticity can be painful and might lead to some degree of disability. Sometimes, degrees of spasticity may still allow you to walk even if you have weak leg muscles.

When spasticity goes unchecked, permanent shortening of muscles and tendons can cause the joint to "seize up," a condition known as joint contractures. These may make joints painfully deformed, and might make it difficult for you to communicate, eat and perform many other everyday tasks. Fortunately, there are ways to control spasticity and perform many of the activities you enjoy in daily life.

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