Understanding Spasticity and Its Impact on Sleep

Spasticity occurs when a muscle cannot relax, perhaps as a result of a brain injury. When spasticity occurs, for example, in the legs, which is called spastic paraplegia, the tone of the leg muscles increases significantly and the legs feel rigid and tight as a result. Knee jerk reflex becomes exaggerated.

Effects and Options

• Spasticity can make it difficult to relax and sleep. Doing stretches may help relieve some of the rigidity. Wearing splints to keep the limb or limbs in the proper position, as well as taking medication for this condition, may relieve some of your pain.

Outcome

• Spasticity results in a lessened range of motion, muscle contractions, tightness and stiffness and abnormal posture, all of which can make sleeping difficult, explains Traumaticbraininjuryatoz.org.

Treatment

• There is a muscle relaxant pump that can be implanted under your skin, which helps your limbs relax. Botox is being used to treat spasticity. This treatment lasts about three months, after which another dose can be given. Wearing a splint and doing stretches will lengthen body tissues, which will result in increased range of motion and a decrease in pain and discomfort.