Espasticidad

Spasticity is a motor disorder that forms part of the upper motor neuron syndrome and it is characterized by a speed-dependent increase in the tonic stretch reflex or muscle tone; accompanied by exaggerated myotendinous reflexes and hyperexcitability of the stretch reflex. It is frequently seen in patients with upper motor neuron syndrome secondary to various pathologies such as cerebrovascular attacks, spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis and cerebral palsy. A multidisciplinary and individualized approach is essential in the treatment of patients; which includes non-pharmacological, pharmacological, neurosurgical and orthopedic management. The present paper intends to carry out an updated non-systematic review on the history, epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and therapeutic approach to spasticity, both in the adult and pediatric population; as well as proposing a therapeutic algorithm.