Managing MS Symptoms
Spasms
Flexor and extensor cramping or pulling with pain characterizes painful leg spasms. They can be associated with severe disability and weak flaccid muscles. Spasms are often aggravated by irritations like skin breakdown and skin ulcer, urinary tract infection, a full bladder, and constipation, or even by touch. Spasms may also occur as result of a paroxysmal phenomena, alone, or in conjunction with other symptoms. Careful attention to hygiene and skin care is especially important as these areas may be compromised by the spasms and are a definite trigger, perpetuating the problem.
Key Healthcare Professionals:
Neurologist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, MS nurse
Symptom Management:
A program of stretching may be helpful. Occupational therapy safety assessment may be relevant to assess safety needs during periods when spasms are active.
Pharmacological treatment is as per spasticity. In extreme cases, botulinum toxin injections may be tried, but the doses required for large muscle groups may exceed what is safe. Intrathecal baclofen , delivered into the spinal canal via a pump can achieve good results, with low dose consistent medication delivery, minimizing the sedating and other side effects of this drug. When introducing any drug therapy it is important to start low dose and titrate up carefully.
Other Resources:
An MS Society of Canada website that provides information on a variety of topics. Information is provided by a range of North American experts who respond to inquires from individuals affected by MS.
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