Spasticity Treatment: What Works and How to Use It

If muscle stiffness is ruining your day, you’re not alone. Spasticity shows up after strokes, multiple sclerosis, spinal injuries, and more. The good news? There are medicines, injections, and simple exercises that can loosen those tight muscles and get you back to daily life.

Medication Basics

The first line of defense is usually a muscle‑relaxing pill. Baclofen is the most common choice because it calms nerve signals that cause the stretch reflex to overreact. Start low, maybe 5 mg three times a day, and let your doctor adjust the dose until you feel smoother movement without too much drowsiness.

Another pill you might hear about is tizanidine. It works a bit differently, blocking certain pathways in the spinal cord. Some people prefer it because it can be taken as needed rather than every few hours. Watch for dry mouth and low blood pressure – those side effects are easy to manage with water and a steady diet.

If oral meds aren’t enough, doctors often turn to Botox injections. The toxin temporarily blocks the nerve signals that make a muscle contract. A single session can last three to four months and targets the most problematic muscles. You’ll feel a slight soreness afterward, but the reduction in stiffness is usually worth it.

Therapy and Lifestyle

Medications help, but they’re not a cure‑all. Stretching routines and physical therapy are the backbone of lasting relief. A trained therapist can teach you safe, passive stretches that keep muscle fibers from tightening permanently. Aim for 10‑15 minutes of gentle stretching each day, focusing on the muscles that feel the tightest.

Strengthening the opposite muscle group is another trick. If your calves are spastic, work on your shin muscles with light resistance bands. Strong antagonists help pull the joint back into a more neutral position, reducing the need for medication.

Don’t overlook the power of heat and cold. Applying a warm pack before a stretch can make the tissue more pliable, while an ice pack afterward can calm any irritation. Many people find a combination of warm showers and short ice massages works best.

Occupational therapy can also teach you adaptive tools for everyday tasks. Simple gadgets like long‑handled brushes, built‑up handles, or voice‑activated devices let you stay independent while your muscles recover.

Lastly, keep an eye on your overall health. Good sleep, balanced nutrition, and staying hydrated all support nerve function. Foods rich in magnesium, like nuts and leafy greens, have a mild relaxing effect on muscles.

Remember, spasticity treatment isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. Talk to your neurologist or physiatrist about trying a low dose of baclofen, scheduling a Botox appointment, or signing up for a stretch program. Adjustments may be needed, but with the right mix of meds and therapy, you can soften those stubborn muscle spasms and enjoy a more comfortable day-to‑day life.