Gait analysis using three-dimensional motion and ground reaction force systems in patients with hemiplegia treated with botulinum toxin type A in ankle plantar flexors / Journal of Rural Medicine

Objective: The efficacy of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injection on spasticity has usually been measured using the range of motion (ROM) of joints and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS); however, they only evaluate muscle tone at rest. We objectively analyzed the gait of three patients with hemiplegia using three-dimensional motion analysis and ground reaction force (GRF) systems to evaluate muscle tone during gait.Materials and Methods: We measured passive ankle dorsiflexion ROM with knee extension and the MAS score for clinical evaluation, and gait speed, stride length, single-leg support phase during the gait cycle, joint angle, joint moment, and GRFs for kinematic evaluation before and one month after BoNT-A injection.Results: All patients showed an increase in ankle dorsiflexion ROM, improvement in MAS score, and increase in stride length. Case 1 showed an increase in gait speed, prolongation of the single-leg support phase, increase in hip extension angle and moment, and improvement in the vertical and anterior-posterior components of the GRFs. Case 2 showed an increase in gait speed, improvement in double knee action, increase in ankle plantar flexion moment, and improvement in propulsion in the progressive component of the GRFs. Case 3 exhibited a laterally directed force in the GRFs.Conclusion: We evaluated the effects of BoNT-A injections in three patients with hemiplegia using three-dimensional motion analysis and GRFs. The results of the gait analysis clarified the improvements and problems in hemiplegic gait and enabled objective explanations for patients.

The state of the art in therapeutic administration of botulinum toxin in children with cerebral palsy: an integrative review / O estado da arte em aplicação terapêutica de toxina botulínica em crianças com paralisia cerebral: uma revisão integrativa

ABSTRACT Objective: To describe the current state of the art in the therapeutic administration of botulinum toxin with indications, efficacy, and safety profile for children and adolescents with cerebral palsy. Data source: An integrative review was conducted. The MEDLINE/PubMed database was searched twice within the last decade using distinct terms, and only studies written in the English language were included. The study population was limited to those aged 0-18 years. Articles that were duplicates or lacked sufficient methodology information were excluded. Data synthesis: We found 256 articles, of which 105 were included. Among the included studies, most were conducted in developed countries. Botulinum toxin demonstrated good safety and efficacy in reducing spasticity, particularly when administered by a multidisciplinary rehabilitation team. It is primarily utilized to improve gait and upper limb function, facilitate hygiene care, reduce pain, prevent musculoskeletal deformities, and even decrease sialorrhea in patients without a functional prognosis for walking. Conclusions: The administration of botulinum toxin is safe and efficacious, especially when combined with a multi-professional rehabilitation team approach, which increases the probability of functional improvement. It can also be beneficial for patients with significant functional impairments to help with daily care tasks, such as hygiene, dressing, and reducing sialorrhea. Pediatricians must be familiar with this treatment and its indications to attend to and refer patients promptly when necessary, and to exploit their neuroplasticity. Further research on this topic is required in developing countries.

RESUMO Objetivo: Descrever o estado da arte em aplicação terapêutica de toxina botulínica com indicações, eficácia e perfil de segurança em crianças e adolescentes com paralisia cerebral. Fontes de dados: Realizada revisão integrativa através de busca na base de dados MEDLINE/PubMed em dois momentos nos últimos 10 anos, e termos distintos, em inglês, numa população entre 0 e 18 anos de idade. Excluiu-se artigos duplicados ou com informações insuficientes de metodologia. Síntese dos dados: 256 artigos foram encontrados e 105 foram incluídos, sendo a maior parte realizados em países desenvolvidos. A toxina botulínica mostrou boa segurança e efetividade na redução da espasticidade, especialmente administrada por uma equipe de reabilitação multiprofissional, usada principalmente para: melhora da marcha e da função dos membros superiores, facilitação dos cuidados de higiene, analgesia e prevenção de deformidades musculoesqueléticas, além de redução da sialorreia, inclusive em pacientes sem prognóstico funcional de marcha. Conclusões: A aplicação de toxina botulínica foi efetiva e segura, principalmente quando atrelada a uma abordagem por equipe de reabilitação multiprofissional, o que aumenta as chances de melhora funcional. Mostrou-se benéfica também para pacientes com grandes comprometimentos funcionais para facilitar os seus cuidados diários em relação à higiene, colocar e tirar roupas e redução da sialorreia. O pediatra deve estar familiarizado com esse tratamento e suas indicações para atender e direcionar pacientes o mais breve possível quando indicado e aproveitar o máximo de neuroplasticidade. Há necessidade de investimentos em mais pesquisas sobre este tema em países em desenvolvimento.

Effect of knee isokinetic training on mild to moderate muscle spasticity of the lower limbs in stroke patients / 中国脑血管病杂志

Objective To observe the effect of knee isometric training on mild to moderate lower limb muscle spasticity in stroke patients.Methods A total of 130 stroke hemiplegia patients were prospectively included in this study.They were admitted to Xiangcheng People's Hospital of Suzhou City between August 2021 and December 2023 and numbered according to the order of collection.The patients were then randomly assigned to either the control group or the isokinetic group using a random number table.Each group consisted of 65 cases.Both groups underwent conventional rehabilitation training(5 days a week,40 minutes per day),with the isokinetic group receiving additional isokinetic muscle training(5 days a week,20 minutes per day)on top of the conventional rehabilitation training.The treatment period lasted for 6 weeks.The surface electromyographic signals of the rectus femoris muscle on the affected side were analyzed for their root-mean-square(RMS),integral electromyographic(iEMG)values,the modified Ashworth scale(MAS)scores,knee flexors and extensors peak torque and its ratio,the Fugl-Meyer assessment scale-lower extremity(FMA-LE)scores,and the 10 m walk test were used before and after the treatments to compare the surface electromyography of rectus femoris,the degree of muscle spasticity and exercise capacity of the lower extremities of the two groups.Results Prior to treatment,there were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of the RMS of the rectus femoris muscle,iEMG values,MAS scores,peak torque of the flexor and extensor muscles and their ratio,FMA-LE score,and step speed(all P＞0.05).RMS of the rectus femoris muscle,iEMG values,MAS scores,peak torque of the knee flexors and extensors and their ratios,FMA-LE scores,and step speed improved in control group after treatment compared to before treatment([12.3±2.2]μV vs.[15.5± 2.9]μV,[24.8±2.3]μV·s vs.[29.2±3.1]μV·s,[1.34±0.15]points vs.[1.56± 0.25]points,[20.8±3.4]N·m vs.[12.3±2.5]N·m,[34.5±2.3]N·m vs.[26.3±3.6]N·m,0.60±0.16 vs.0.47±0.14,[26.1±2.9]points vs.[21.3±2.4]points,[0.61±0.14]m/s vs.[0.46±0.15]m/s;all P＜0.05).Rectus femoris muscle RMS,iEMG values,MAS scores,peak torque of the flexor and extensor muscles and their ratio,FMA-LE scores and step speed after treatment in the isokinetic group were(10.9±1.8)μV,(22.4±2.1)μV·s,(1.25±0.18)points,(28.7±3.0)N·m,(41.5±2.8)N·m,0.69±0.18,(29.0±2.3)points,(0.69±0.18)m/s,compared with pretreatment(respectively[15.4±2.2]μV,[29.6±3.0]μV·s,[1.58±0.34]points,[12.6± 2.3]N·m,[26.1±3.1]N·m,0.48±0.17,[21.5±2.1]points,[0.48±0.17]m/s)and control group after treatment,the differences were statistically significant(all P＜0.05).Before treatment,the differences in rectus femoris muscle RMS and iEMG values between patients with mild spasticity and patients with moderate spasticity in the isokinetic group and the corresponding patients with mild spasticity and moderate spasticity within the control group were not statistically significant(all P＞0.05).After treatment,the rectus femoris muscle RMS and iEMG values in patients with mild spasticity within the isokinetic group([10.2±1.0]μV and[20.2±2.0]μV·s,respectively)were statistically different from those before treatment([14.1±2.3]μV and[28.1±3.2]μV·s,respectively)and those after treatment in patients with mild spasticity within the control group([11.4±1.7]μV and[23.6±2.5]μV·s respectively;all P＜0.05);the rectus femoris muscle RMS and iEMG values in patients with moderate spasticity within the isokinetic group improved compared with the pre-treatment period([11.8±1.5]μV vs.[16.9±2.6)μV,and[24.9±2.2]μV·s vs.[31.3±3.8]μV·s,respectively;both P＜0.05),and with the control group after treatment(RMS and iEMG values of[13.2±2.5]μV and[26.1± 2.7]μV·s,respectively),the difference in RMS was statistically significant(P＜0.01),and the difference in iEMG values was not statistically significant(P＞0.05).Conclusion Isokinetic muscle training has a positive effect on improving mild-to-moderate muscle spasticity of the lower limb knee extension,and the effect is more significant the lighter the degree of spasticity.

Effects of Electroacupuncture on Post Stroke Spasticity Rats Based on IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 Signaling Pathway / 中国中医药信息杂志

Objective To observe the effects of electroacupuncture on central inflammatory response and neurotransmitter release in rats with post stroke spasticity(PSS);To exploring the mechanism in treating PSS based on IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.Methods Totally 30 male SD rats were randomly divided into sham-operation group,model group and electroacupuncture group,with 10 rats in each group.The PSS model was prepared by the method of suture and N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor injection into internal capsule.The rats in the electroacupuncture group were electroacupulated on the affected side of the body at"Quchi"and"Yanglingquan"for 30 min/d for consecutive 7 d.The sham-operation group and the model group were only fixed without any interventions.The Zea Longa neurological function score and the modified Ashworth muscle tension score were evaluated before and after treatment in each group;the pathological changes of the cortex on the ischemic side were observed by HE staining;the contents of interleukin-6(IL-6),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α),and γ-aminobutyric acid(GABA)in cortex on the ischemic side were detected by ELISA;the content of glutamate(Glu)was detected by biochemical kit;Western blot was used to detect the expressions of tyrosine kinase 2(JAK2),p-JAK2,signal transduction and transcription activating factor 3(STAT3)and p-STAT3 protein in ischemic cortex;RT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA expressions of JAK2 and STAT3 in ischemic cortex.Results Compared with the sham-operation group,neurological function score and muscle tension score significantly increased in the model group(P<0.01),with disorganized neurons in cerebral cortex,nucleus accumbens,the contents of IL-6,TNF-α and Glu significantly increased,the content of GABA significantly decreased(P<0.01),and p-JAK2,p-STAT3 proteins and JAK2 and STAT3 mRNA expression significantly increased(P<0.01,P<0.05).Compared with the model group,the neurological function score and muscle tension score of rats in the electroacupuncture group were significantly decreased(P<0.05),the degree of neuronal damage in cerebral cortex was reduced,the cell contour was clear,the content of IL-6,TNF-α and Glu were significantly decreased,and the content of GABA significantly increased(P<0.05,P<0.01),p-JAK2,p-STAT3 protein and JAK2,STAT3 mRNA expression significantly decreased(P<0.01).Conclusion Electroacupuncture may alleviate central inflammatory response and improve limb spasticity of PSS model rats by inhibiting the IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.

Effects of Electroacupuncture Regulating the Polarization of Microglia on Post-Stroke Spasticity in Rats / 中国中医药信息杂志

Objective To observe the effects of electroacupuncture on post-stroke spasticity(PSS)rats and the relationship between microglia polarization-mediated neuroinflammation and neurotransmitter glutamate(Glu)and γ-aminobutyric acid(GABA)in cerebral cortex;To investigate the possible mechanism of electroacupuncture to relieve PSS.Methods Male SD rats were randomly divided into sham-operation group,model group and electroacupuncture group,with 10 rats in each group.A rat model of PSS was prepared using suture method combined with internal capsule injection of NMDA receptor.The electroacupuncture group selected"Quchi"and"Yanglingquan"electroacupuncture for 30 minutes per day,for 7 days,the model group and the sham-operation group were fixed at the same time without intervention.Zea Longa neurological function score and modified Ashworth muscular tone score were evaluated,and electrophysiology was tested;kits were used to GABA,Glu,tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)and interleukin-10(IL-10)content in ischemic cortex;Western blot was used to detect the expression of GABRA1 and GAD67 protein in ischemic cortex;The co-expression of ionized calcium-binding protein 1(Iba-1),inducible nitric oxide synthase(iNOS)and Arg-1 were detected by immunofluorescence staining.Results Compared with the sham-operation group,the neurological function score and muscle tone score of the model group rats significantly increased(P<0.01),and muscle tone significantly increased(P<0.01);the contents of GABA and IL-10 in ischemic cortex significantly decreased(P<0.01),and the contents of TNF-α and Glu significantly increased(P<0.01),Glu/GABA ratio increased(P<0.01),GABRA1 and GAD67 protein expression significantly decreased(P<0.01),the co-expression of Iba-1 and iNOS significantly increased(P<0.01),while the co-expression of Iba-1 and Arg-1 was significantly decreased(P<0.01).Compared with the model group,the nerve function score and muscle tone score of the electroacupuncture group rats were significantly reduced(P<0.05),and muscle tone was significantly reduced(P<0.01);the contents of GABA and IL-10 in ischemic cortex significantly increased(P<0.01),and the contents of TNF-α and Glu significantly decreased(P<0.01),Glu/GABA ratio decreased(P<0.01),the protein expressions of GABRA1 and GAD67 significantly increased(P<0.01),the co-expression of Iba-1 and iNOS significantly decreased(P<0.01),while the co-expression of Iba-1 and Arg-1 significantly increased(P<0.05).Conclusion Electroacupuncture can effectively alleviate PSS,and its mechanism of action may be related to electroacupuncture regulating microglia polarization and reduing neuroinflammation.

Associação de estimulação por ondas de choque a toxina botulínica e baclofeno durante a reabilitação de paciente com lesão medular e trauma cranioencefálico: relato de caso / Association of extracorporeal shockwave stimulation to botulinum toxin and baclofen during an in-patient rehabilitation in spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury: case report

Recentemente, a terapia por ondas de choque extracorpóreas (TOCE) mostraram-se ser uma promissora tecnologia não invasiva para neuromodulação e recuperação funcional devido a melhora em brotamento neuronal, neuroproteção, controle de neuroplasticidade e reorganização neuronal, além de atuar em fatores de neurogênese. Objetivo: Descrever um caso que usa TOCE como um adjuvante na reabilitação de trauma medular. Relato de caso: LPS, 25 anos, estudante de medicina, sofreu uma queda de altura indeterminada com fratura de C5 e lesão medular associada a trauma cranioencefálico. Na fase aguda, ele se recuperou adequadamente, tendo sido submetido a descompressão e fixação de coluna e hospitalizado por 5 meses devido a disautonomias e infecções urinárias. Após esse período, ele iniciou um programa de reabilitação intensiva para tetraplegia espástica com classificação inicial segundo o ASIA (American Spinal Injury Association) nível C5 motor e C6 sensório. O tratamento incluiu 10 sessões de TOCE, realizadas com Duolith SD1 (Storz Medical, Suíça) com uma densidade de energia de 0,25mJ/mm², 5 cm e 3 cm de profundidade de foco, 2000 pulsos aplicados na linha média de coluna níveis C5 a T1 e 2000 pulsos a 5 cm de profundidade aplicados em região plantar bilateral. Bloqueio com toxina botulínica e fenol foram realizados com resposta parcial apesar da dose otimizada de baclofeno.

Recently, extracorporeal shockwaves (ESWT) have shown as a promising non-invasive technology for neuromodulation and functional recovery, due to improving neuronal budding, neuroprotection, control of neuroplasticity and neuronal reorganization, in addition to acting on neurogenesis factors. Objective: To describe a case that uses ESWT as an adjuvant to the rehabilitation of spinal cord trauma. Case Report: LPS, 25 years old, medical student, suffered a fall from an undetermined height with C5 fracture and spinal cord injury, associated with a cranioencephalic trauma. In the acute phase, he was rescued properly, performed decompression and spinal cord fixation and remained hospitalized for 5 months due to dysautonomia and urinary infections. After this period, he started an intensive in-patient rehabilitation program for spastic tetraplegia with initial classification according to ASIA C5 (motor) and C6 (sensory). The treatment included 10 sessions of ESWT, made with Duolith SD1 (Storz Medical, Switzerland) with an Energy flux density 0,25 mJ/mm2, at 5cm and 3cm depth focus, 2000 pulses each over the spinal cord at the midline of levels from C5 to T1, and 2000 pulses at 5cm depth focus applied at plantar region bilaterally.

Desarrollo psicomotor según características sociodemográficas y clínicas en niños de hasta 36 meses, con parálisis cerebral

Introducción: Es importante conocer el desarrollo psicomotor de los niños con parálisis cerebral de acuerdo con sus características sociodemográficas y clínicas para realizar un mejor tratamiento en este tipo de pacientes. Objetivo: Describir el desarrollo psicomotor según las características sociodemográficas y clínicas de niños hasta 36 meses con parálisis cerebral. Métodos: Estudio observacional, descriptivo, de corte transversal con datos retrospectivos. Se revisaron 177 historias clínicas de pacientes con diagnóstico de parálisis cerebral de 0 a 36 meses, atendidos del 1 de enero de 2015 al 31 de diciembre de 2016 en un instituto nacional de rehabilitación de Lima, Perú. Resultados: La edad promedio fue 25,1 ± 7,16 meses, el 58,19 % fue del sexo masculino, el grupo etario de 25-36 meses representó el 67,89 %, predominó la parálisis cerebral espástica cuadripléjica con 28,25 %, el 14,12 % tenía alteración en la audición y el 19,21 % convulsiones. El promedio de porcentajes de desarrollo psicomotor global fue de 62,66 %; los menores promedios fueron para el comportamiento motor grueso (57,15 %), el grupo etario de 0 a 12 meses (51,49 %), las niñas (57,72 %), la parálisis cerebral espástica cuadriplejia (42,55 %), niños con alteración auditiva y visual (36,92 %), con convulsiones (46,17 %) y prematuros (58,26 %). Conclusiones: Los niños hasta 36 meses con parálisis cerebral tienen un retraso global del desarrollo psicomotor de aproximadamente el 35 %, con mayor afectación los de menor edad, las niñas, los que tienen parálisis cerebral espástica cuadripléjica, alteración auditiva y visual, convulsiones y son prematuros.

Introduction: It is important to know the psychomotor development of children with cerebral palsy according to their sociodemographic and clinical characteristics to carry out a better approach in this type of patients. Objective: To describe the psychomotor development according to sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of children up to 36 months with cerebral palsy. Methods: Observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study with retrospective data. 177 medical records of patients with a diagnosis of cerebral palsy from 0 to 36 months were reviewed, treated from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2016 at a national rehabilitation institute in Lima, Peru. Results: The average age was 25.1 ± 7.16 months, the 58.19% were male, the age group of 25-36 months represented 67.89%, quadriplegic spastic cerebral palsy predominated with 28.25%, 14.12% had alteration in hearing and 19.21% seizures. The average percentage of global psychomotor development was 62.66%; the lowest averages were for gross motor behavior (57.15%), the age group from 0 to 12 months (51.49%), girls (57.72%), spastic cerebral palsy quadriplegia (42.55%), children with hearing and visual impairment (36.92%), with seizures (46.17%) and premature (58.26%). Conclusions: Children up to 36 months with cerebral palsy have a global delay in psychomotor development of approximately 35%, with greater affectation in younger children, girls, those with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, hearing and visual disorders, seizures and are premature.

Prevalence, Onset, Evolution, and Prediction of Spasticity Poststroke: A Longitudinal Study / Prevalencia, inicio, evolución y predicción de la espasticidad posterior a un ACV: un estudio longitudinal / Prevalência, início, evolução e previsão de espasticidade após AVC: um estudo longitudinal

Introduction: Because of the the complex physiopathology of spasticity, it is distinguished as one of the most significant positive clinical signs of upper motor neuron syndrome, constituting a clinical feature that has great impact in the neurorehabilitation setting. Thus, the current study aimed to determine the prevalence, onset, evolution, and prediction of spasticity after a stroke. Materials and Methods: A correlational, longitudinal design was used. A total of 136 patients were evaluated at the following times: 10 days (T1), 3 months (T2), and 12 months (T3) poststroke. The initial evaluation included sociodemographic and clinical data (T1). Muscle tone was measured (T1, T2, and T3) using the Modified Ashworth Scale. Results: The prevalence of poststroke spasticity in the elbow was 37.5 % at T1 and 57.4 % at T2 and T3. Among patients with motor damage, the onset of spasticity occurred at T1 in 44.7 %, between T1 and T2 in 23.7 %, and between T2 and T3 in 0.9 %. Significant predictors of the alteration in muscular tone for at least two of the evaluation times were ethnic self-classification, type, area, extent of stroke, and number of sessions. Conclusions: Spasticity onset occurs during the first 10 days after a stroke. More clinical than sociodemographic variables predicted spasticity.

Introducción: la espasticidad se destaca como uno de los signos clínicos positivos más significativos del síndrome de motoneurona superior, por su compleja fisiopatología, y constituye una característica clí- nica de gran impacto en el ámbito de la neurorrehabilitación. Por lo tanto, el objetivo fue determinar la prevalencia, el inicio, la evolución y la predicción de la espasticidad después de un accidente cerebro- vascular. Materiales y métodos: se utilizó un diseño longitudinal correlacional. Se evaluaron 136 pacientes: 10 días (T1), 3 meses (T2) y 12 meses (T3) pos-ACV. La evaluación incluyó datos sociodemográficos y clínicos (T1) y se midió el tono muscular (T1, T2 y T3) mediante la Escala de Ashworth Modificada. Resultados: la prevalencia en el codo fue del 37.5 % en T1, y del 57.4 % en T2 y T3. Entre los pacientes con daño motor, el inicio de la espasticidad ocurrió en T1 para el 44.7 % de ellos, entre T1 y T2 para el 23.7 % y entre T2 y T3 para el 0.9 %. La autoclasificación étnica, el tipo, el área, la extensión del ictus y el número de sesiones predijeron significativamente la alteración del tono muscular en al menos dos ocasiones. Conclusiones: el inicio de la espasticidad ocurre durante los 10 primeros días después de un ACV. Más variables clínicas que sociodemográficas predijeron espasticidad.

Introdução: a espasticidade destaca-se como um dos sinais clínicos positivos mais significativos da síndrome do neurônio motor superior, devido à sua fisiopatologia complexa, e constitui uma característica clínica de grande impacto no campo da neurorreabilitação. Portanto, nosso objetivo foi determinar a prevalência, início, evolução e predição da espasticidade após o acidente vascular cerebral. Materiais e métodos: foi utilizado um desenho correlacional longitudinal. Foram avaliados 136 pacientes: 10 dias (T1), 3 meses (T2) e 12 meses (T3) pós-AVC. A avaliação incluiu dados sociodemográficos e clínicos (T1) e o tônus muscular (T1, T2 e T3) foi medido por meio da Escala Modificada de Ashworth. Resultados: a prevalência no cotovelo foi de 37,5 % em T1 e 57,4 % em T2 e T3. Entre os pacientes com prejuízo motor, o início da espasticidade ocorreu em T1 em 44,7 % deles, entre T1 e T2 em 23,7 % e entre T2 e T3 em 0,9 % dos pacientes. A autoclassificação étnica, o tipo, a área, a extensão do AVC e o número de sessões predisseram significativamente as anormalidades do tônus muscular em pelo menos duas ocasiões. Conclusões: o início da espasticidade ocorre durante os primeiros 10 dias após o acidente vascular cerebral. Mais variáveis clínicas do que sociodemográficas previram a espasticidade

Dual-task treadmill training improves the motor functioning of children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore any effect of the single- and dual-task treadmill training on the functioning of children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy.Methods:Fifty children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy were randomly divided into a single-task treadmill training group (the control group, n=25) and a dual-task treadmill training group (the observation group, n=25). All of the children also received routine rehabilitation training, and the control and observation groups also conducted single- and dual-task treadmill training in addition to the routine rehabilitation training, respectively. Before and after 2 months of treatment, each child′s gross motor functioning was quantified using sections D (standing) and E (walking, running and jumping) of the Gross Motor Function Measurement-88 (GMFM-88) instrument. Balance was quantified using the Pediatric Balance Scale (PBS) and walking mobility was quantified using a 1 minute walking test (1MWT). Modified and dual task Timed Up and Go (mTUG) tests and dual-task effects (DTE) tests were also administered. Results:There were no significant differences in average test scores between the two groups before the treatment. After the treatment significant improvement was observed in both groups. There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of average GMFM-88, PBS and 1MWT scores, but significantly greater improvement was observed in the average dual-task mTUG and DTE results of the observation group.Conclusion:Both single- and dual-task treadmill training are effective supplements to routine rehabilitation training for children with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy. Dual-task treadmill training is more effective than the single-task version.

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for treatment of limb spasticity following multiple sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Pilot trials have suggested that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may reduce limb spasticity in multiple sclerosis (MS). We carried out the current meta-analysis to synthesize currently available evidence regarding such correlation. Up to November 2022, five international electronic databases (Cochrane CENTRAL, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL) and four Chinese electronic databases (CBM, CNKI, WanFang Data, and VIP) were systematically searched to identify randomized trials comparing active rTMS and sham stimulation in patients with MS-related spasticity. Two reviewers independently selected studies and extracted data on study design, quality, clinical outcomes, and time points measured. The primary outcome was clinical spasticity relief after intervention. Secondary outcomes included spasticity at the follow-up visit 2 weeks later and post-treatment fatigue. Of 831 titles found, we included 8 studies (181 participants) in the quantitative analysis. Pooled analyses showed that rTMS therapy was associated with significant spasticity relief in the early post-intervention period [standardized mean differences (SMD): -0.67; 95%CI: -1.12 to -0.21], but there was insufficient evidence for rTMS in reducing spasticity at the follow-up visit 2 weeks later (SMD: -0.17; 95%CI: -0.52 to 0.17) and fatigue (SMD: -0.26; 95%CI: -0.84 to 0.31). This evidence supports the recommendations to treat MS-related spasticity with rTMS, but underlines the need for further large randomized trials.

Use of cannabis medicine for the treatment of spasticity-associated pain / O uso da medicina canábica para tratamento da dor associada à espasticidade

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Spasticity refers to the increase of resistance to joint passive movement according to its angular velocity. It is part of the triad of the pyramidal syndrome, along with the exacerbation of myotatic reflexes and muscle weakness, and is present in several lesions of the central nervous system, either in the spinal cord or brain. Pain associated with spasticity is caused by muscle spasms, activation of trigger points, joint deformities, interference with the position of body segments, and difficulty in movement control. For a more precise therapeutic intervention, the detailed physical examination of the locomotor system and spasticity can be completed by using specific spasticity evaluation scales. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the clinical condition for which there are the greatest number of studies using cannabi-noids to control spasticity. The objective of this study was to perform a literature review of the possible role of cannabinoid drugs in the control of spasticity and the pain associated with it. CONTENTS: The literature shows moderate evidence that the combined use of 9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol increases the number of people reporting improvement in spasticity. CONCLUSION: It is possible to believe that the complaint of musculoskeletal pain associated with spasticity accompanies this improvement with the use of nabiximols, but there are still gaps in the literature for this specific topic.

RESUMO JUSTIFICATIVA E OBJETIVOS: A espasticidade refere-se ao aumento da resistência ao movimento passivo articular conforme a sua velocidade angular. Ela faz parte da tríade da síndrome piramidal, junto com a exacerbação de reflexos miotáticos e fraqueza muscular, e está presente em diversas lesões do sistema nervoso central, de topografia medular ou encefálica. A dor associada à espasticidade é causada pelos espasmos musculares, ativação de pontos-gatilho, deformidades articulares, interferência na posição dos segmentos corporais e dificuldade para o controle do movimento. Para uma intervenção terapêutica mais precisa, o exame físico detalhado do aparelho locomotor e da espasticidade pode ser completado pelo uso de escalas de avaliação específicas. A esclerose múltipla é a condição clínica para a qual há maior número de estudos com uso de canabinoides para o controle da espasticidade. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar uma revisão da literatura sobre o possível papel dos fármacos canabinoides no controle da espasticidade e da dor associada a ela. CONTEÚDO: Há na literatura evidências moderadas de que o uso combinado de 9-tetrahidrocanabinol e canabidiol aumenta o número de pessoas que relatam melhora da espasticidade. CONCLUSÃO: É possível acreditar que a queixa de dor musculoesquelética associada à espasticidade acompanhe essa melhora com uso de nabiximol, mas ainda há lacunas na literatura para esse tópico específico.

Developments in post-stroke spasticity care with early use of Botulinum Toxin A: A review

@#Spasticity is one of the most common and disabling complications of stroke. Most of these patients notably experience both muscle-based and non-muscle-based pain. This negatively affects their quality of life as well as aggravates caregiver burden. Post-stroke spasticity (PSS) may furthermore lead to several complications related to limited mobility, both motor (eg, contractures) and non-motor (cognitive decline, depression) if left untreated. It is thus crucial to address this with safe and effective means such as botulinum toxin therapy as early as possible. We aim to demonstrate the utility of botulinum toxin (BoNT) in PSS treatment and how early intervention may be preferable to late spasticity control for patients. Literature search and evaluation were done using the traditional evidence hierarchy. Early intervention with botulinum toxin A (BoNTA) demonstrated a more marked reduction in both spasticity and spasticity-related pain with longer required intervals to reinjection.

Applying extracorporeal shockwave therapy to the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle or the myotendinous junction can improve spasticity and walking ability after a stroke / 中华物理医学与康复杂志

Objective:To explore any effect of using extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) on the gastrocnemius muscle or the myotendinous junction on spasticity and the walking ability of stroke survivors.Methods:A total of 84 stroke survivors were randomly divided into a control group, a muscle belly group, and a myotendinous junction group, each of 28. In addition to conventional rehabilitation, the muscle belly and myotendinous junction groups received ESWT applied to the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle or the myotendinous junction. Before as well as one, two and three weeks after the treatment, all were evaluated using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS), passive range of motion (PROM), a visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain rating, and 10m maximum walking speed (10m MWS). Stride frequency and length were also measured and compared among the 3 groups.Results:After three weeks of ESWT treatment the average MAS, PROM and VAS scores of the belly and the junction group were significantly improved compared to before the treatment. The average MAS, PROM and VAS scores of the belly group and the average MAS score of the junction group were then significantly superior to the control group′s averages, and the average VAS score of the belly group was significantly better than that of the junction group. After one and two weeks of treatment, the average 10MWSs of the belly and junction groups were significantly better than the control group′s average, and after 3 weeks the belly group′s average speed was significantly better than the junction group′s. The stride frequency of the belly group had improved significantly compared with the control group after 2 weeks, and after 3 weeks both experimental groups had significantly better frequency than the control group. The average stride length of both the belly and junction groups was significantly better than the control group′s average throughout the testing.Conclusion:ESWT applied to the belly of the gastrocnemius muscle or the myotendinous junction can relieve muscle spasticity and pain and improve walking ability. Applying ESWT to the muscle belly is superior to on the myotendinous junction in terms of therapeutic efficacy.

The effects of electroacupuncture on the cortical SLC7A11 and GPX4 expressions in the rat with post stroke-induced limb spasticity / 神经解剖学杂志

Objective:To observe the effects of electroacupuncture on the expression of cortical solute carrier family 7 member 11(SLC7A11),glutathione(GSH)and glutathione peroxidase 4(GPX4)in rats with post stroke spasticity(PSS),and to explore the mechanism of electroacupuncture in the treatment ferrozosis in PSS.Methods:Thirty SD male rats were randomly divided into sham group,model group and electroacupuncture group.A modified Zea-Longa wire bolus+internal capsule injection NMDA method was used to produce a rat model of PSS.In the electroacupunc-ture group,the affected side of Yanglingquan and Quchi were needled once/day for 30 min/time for 7 d.In the sham group and the model group,only fixation without intervention was performed during the same period.Zea-Longa Neuro-logical Function Score was used to detect the neurological function of rats,electrophysiological tracing method was used to detect the muscle tone of rat quadriceps,Western Blot was used to detect the protein expression of rat cortical SLC7A11 and GPX4,Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)was used to detect the GSH content of rat cortex,and real time RT-PCR was used to detect the mRNA of rat cortical SLC7A11 and GPX4 mRNA expression.Results:Neurological function scores were elevated;quadriceps muscle tone was increased;GSH content was decreased;the protein expression of SLC7A11 and GPX4 was significantly decreased;the expression of SLC7A11 mRNA and GPX4 mRNA was significantly decreased.Electroacupuncture treatment resulted in lower neurological function scores,lower quadriceps muscle tone,increased GSH content in rat cortex,significantly up-regulated protein expression of SLC7A11 and GPX4,and significantly increased expression of SLC7A11 and GPX4 mRNA.Conclusion:Electroacupuncture on"Yanglingquan"and"Quchi"could improve limb spasticity and promote the recovery of neurological function in PSS rats,and its mechanism of action may be related to the inhibition of ferroptosis of cortical cells by electroacupuncture regulating the SLC7A11 and GPX4 expression.

Uso da toxina botulínica tipo A no tratamento da espasticidade em crianças com paralisia cerebral: revisão sistemática / Use of botulinum toxin type A in the treatment of spasticity in children with cerebral palsy: systematic review

Há pouco mais de duas décadas, a toxina botulínica tipo A (TBA) vem sendo utilizada como parte do tratamento multimodal para a redução do tônus muscular em crianças com paralisia cerebral (PC) espástica. Objetivos: determinar a eficácia e segurança, avaliar as doses utilizadas em cada faixa etária e comparar os custos entre as TBA's para tratamento da espasticidade em crianças portadoras de PC. Métodos: foi realizada uma revisão sistemática de estudos publicados nos últimos 6 anos, de 2017 a abril de 2022, através das bases de dados do PubMed, SciELO, Science Direct, Google Acadêmico e Periódicos CAPES, de acordo com os seguintes critérios de inclusão: (1) termos de busca: toxina botulínica, espasticidade e paralisia cerebral; (2) idioma: português, inglês e espanhol; (3) desenho: ensaios clínicos randomizados e duplo-cego, revisões sistemáticas e metanálises; (4) população: crianças e adolescentes com PC espástica; (5) intervenção: TBA; (6) grupo controle com outro tratamento para PC ou sem intervenção; (7) desfecho: alteração na Escala de Ashworth Modificada, efeitos adversos e qualidade de vida. Resultados: foram incluídos 10 artigos nesta revisão, que apresentaram dose mínima terapêutica, o impacto de injeções únicas e repetidas, seleção de músculos e pontos a serem aplicados. Conclusão: a TBA proporcionou uma melhora significativa sobre a espasticidade e funcionalidade da criança com PC espástica, em um período de até 3 meses após sua aplicação. Pode ser considerada uma opção de tratamento segura e eficaz, e a análise econômica da saúde demonstra que essa intervenção possui excelente relação custo-benefício.

For just over two decades, botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) has been used as part of a multimodal treatment to reduce muscle tone in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). Objectives: to determine the efficacy and safety, to evaluate the doses used in each age group and to compare the costs between the BoNT-A's for the treatment of spasticity in children with CP. Methods: a systematic review of studies published in the last 6 years, from 2017 to april 2022, was carried out through the PubMed, SciELO, Science Direct, Google Scholar and CAPES Periodicals databases, according to the following inclusion criteria: (1) search terms: botulinum toxin, spasticity and cerebral palsy; (2) language: portuguese, english and epanish; (3) design: trials randomized and double-blind clinical trials, systematic reviews and meta-analyses; (4) population: children and adolescents with spastic CP; (5) intervention: BoNT-A; (6) control group with other treatment for CP or without intervention; (7) outcome: change in Modified Ashworth Scale, adverse effects and quality of life. Results: 10 articles were included in this review, which presented the minimum therapeutic dose, the impact of single and repeated injections, selection of muscles and points to be applied. Conclusion: BoNT-A provided a significant improvement in spasticity and functionality in children with spastic CP, within a period of up to 3 months after its application. It can be considered a safe and effective treatment option, and the economic analysis of health demonstrates that this intervention has an excellent cost-benefit ratio.

Correlação entre espasticidade do membro superior e movimentação da mão no pós-AVC / Correlación entre la espasticidad del miembro superior y el movimiento de la mano post-ACV / Correlation between upper limb spasticity and hand movement after stroke

RESUMO A hemiparesia e a espasticidade são consequências comuns em pacientes que sofreram um acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) e delas decorre a dificuldade do paciente de movimentar o hemicorpo acometido. O objetivo deste estudo foi, assim, verificar a relação da espasticidade no membro superior (MS) com a capacidade de movimentação da mão desses pacientes, a partir de um estudo transversal de delineamento ex-post facto correlacional. Foram avaliados pacientes que realizavam acompanhamento no Ambulatório Neurovascular do Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA). Foi preenchida uma ficha de avaliação com dados da amostra e realizada a avaliação da espasticidade do MS, por meio da escala de Ashworth modificada (MAS), e da movimentação ativa da mão, por meio da escala de movimentação da mão (EMM). Para a correlação das variáveis, foi usado o coeficiente de correlação tau de Kendall, adotando-se um nível de significação de 5% (p≤0,05). Foram avaliados 47 sujeitos de ambos os sexos com média de idade de 64,5 (±13) anos e média de tempo de AVC de 2,7 (±1,8) meses. A moda da EMM foi de 6 pontos e 74,4% dos pacientes não eram espásticos. O movimento da mão apresentou correlação significativa negativa com as musculaturas espásticas avaliadas. Houve uma correlação negativa moderada com as musculaturas peitoral (r=−0,383; p=0,007), os flexores de cotovelo (r=−0,339; p=0,016) e pronadores (r=−0,460; p=0,001), e correlação negativa alta com os flexores de punho (r=−0,588; p<0,001) e os flexores de dedos (r=−0,692; p<0,001). Concluiu-se que quanto maior o grau de espasticidade do membro superior, menor a capacidade de movimentação da mão dos pacientes.

RESUMEN La hemiparesia y la espasticidad en los pacientes son consecuencias frecuentes del accidente cerebrovascular (ACV), lo que resulta en la dificultad del paciente para mover el hemicuerpo afectado. El objetivo de este estudio fue verificar la relación entre la espasticidad en el miembro superior (MS) y la capacidad de mover la mano de estos pacientes a partir de un estudio transversal, con un diseño correlacional ex post facto. Se evaluaron a pacientes en seguimiento en el Ambulatorio de Neurovascular del Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre (HCPA), en Brasil. El formulario de evaluación se utilizó para recoger los datos de la muestra, y para el análisis de la espasticidad del MS se aplicó la escala de Ashworth modificada (MAS), y el movimiento activo de la mano, la escala de movimiento de la mano (EMM). Para la correlación de variables se utilizó el coeficiente de correlación tau de Kendall, con un nivel de significación del 5% (p≤0,05). Se evaluaron a 47 personas de ambos sexos, con una edad media de 64,5 (±13) años y un tiempo medio del ACV de 2,7 (±1,8) meses. La moda de EMM fue de 6 puntos, y el 74,4% de los pacientes no eran espásticos. El movimiento de la mano mostró una correlación negativa significativa con las musculaturas espásticas evaluadas. Hubo una moderada correlación negativa con la musculatura pectoral (r=−0,383; p=0,007), los flexores del codo (r=−0,339; p=0,016) y pronadores (r=−0,460; p=0,001), y una alta correlación negativa con los flexores de muñeca (r=−0,588; p<0,001) y los flexores de dedos (r=−0,692; p<0,001). Se concluyó que cuanto mayor es el grado de espasticidad del miembro superior, menor será la capacidad de movimiento de las manos de los pacientes.

ABSTRACT Hemiparesis and spasticity are common consequences in stroke patients, hampering the movement in the affected side. Our study aimed to correlate upper limb spasticity and the ability to move the hand in these patients. This is a quantitative cross-sectional study with an ex post facto correlational design. We evaluated patients undergoing follow-up at the Neurovascular Outpatient Clinic at the Hospital de Clínicas de Porto Alegre. An evaluation form was filled out with sample data and the upper limb spasticity was evaluated using the Modified Ashworth Scale and the active hand movement using the Hand Movement Scale. Correlation of variables were verified using Kendall's rank correlation coefficient. A significance level of 5% (p≤0.05) was adopted. In total, we evaluated 47 subjects of all genders, with a mean age of 64.5 (±13) years and a mean stroke time of 2.7 (±1.8) months. The Hand movement Scale mode was 6 points, and 74.4% of patients were not spastic. Hand movement showed a significant negative correlation with the spastic muscles evaluated. There was a moderate negative correlation with the pectoral muscles (r=−0.383; p=0.007), elbow flexors (r=−0.339; p=0.016) and pronators (r=−0.460; p=0.001) and high negative correlation with wrist flexors (r=−0.588; p<0.001) and finger flexors (r=−0.692; p<.001). The greater the degree of spasticity of the upper limb, the smaller the hand movement capacity in stroke patients.

Localization of the centre of the highest region of the triceps brachii muscle spindle abundance and its significance in muscle spasticity block / Localización del centro de la región más alta del huso del músculo tríceps braquial y su importancia en el bloqueo de la espasticidad muscular

SUMMARY: This study aimed to accurately localize the location and depth of the centre of the highest region of muscle spindle abundance (CHRMSA) of the triceps brachii muscle. Twenty-four adult cadavers were placed in the prone position. The curve connecting the acromion and lateral epicondyle of the humerus close to the skin was designed as the longitudinal reference line (L), and the curve connecting the lateral and the medial epicondyle of the humerus was designed as the horizontal reference line (H). Sihler's staining was used to visualize the dense intramuscular nerve region of the triceps brachii muscle. The abundance of muscle spindle was calculated after hematoxylin and eosin stain. CHRMSA was labelled by barium sulphate, and spiral computed tomography scanning and three- dimensional reconstruction were performed. Using the Syngo system, the projection points of CHRMSA on the posterior and anterior arm surface (P and P' points), the position of P points projected to the L and H lines (PL and PH points), and the depth of CHRMSA were determined. The PL of the CHRMSA of the long, medial, and lateral heads of the triceps brachii muscle were located at 34.83 %, 75.63 %, and 63.93 % of the L line, respectively, and the PH was located at 63.46 %, 69.62 %, and 56.07 % of the H line, respectively. In addition, the depth was located at 34.73 %, 35.48 %, and 35.85 % of the PP' line, respectively. These percentage values are all the means. These body surface locations and depths are suggested to be the optimal blocking targets for botulinum toxin A in the treatment of triceps brachii muscle spasticity.

RESUMEN: Este estudio tuvo como objetivo localizar con precisión la ubicación y la profundidad del centro de la región más alta del huso muscular (CHRMSA) del músculo tríceps braquial. Se colocaron veinticuatro cadáveres adultos en posición prona y se designó la curva que conecta el acromion y el epicóndilo lateral del húmero cerca de la piel como la línea de referencia longitudinal (L), y la curva que conecta los epicóndilos lateral y medial del húmero fue designada como la línea de referencia horizontal (H). Se usó la tinción de Sihler para visualizar la región nerviosa intramuscular densa del músculo tríceps braquial. La abundancia de huso muscular se calculó después de la tinción con hematoxilina y eosina. CHRMSA se marcó con sulfato de bario y se realizó una tomografía computarizada espiral y una reconstrucción tridimensional. Usando el sistema Syngo, fueron determinados los puntos de proyección de CHRMSA en la superficie posterior y anterior del brazo (puntos P y P'), la posición de los puntos P pro- yectados en las líneas L y H (puntos PL y PH) y la profundidad de CHRMSA. Los PL de la CHRMSA de las cabezas larga, medial y lateral del músculo tríceps braquial se ubicaron en el 34,83 %, 75,63 % y 63,93 % de la línea L, respectivamente, y el PH se ubicó en el 63,46 %, 69,62 %, y 56,07 % de la línea H, respectivamente. La profundidad se ubicó en el 34,73 %, 35,48 % y 35,85 % de la línea PP', respectivamente. Estos valores porcentuales son todas las medias. Se sugiere que estas ubicaciones y profundidades de la superficie corporal son los objetivos de bloqueo óptimos para la toxina botulínica A en el tratamiento de la espasticidad del músculo tríceps braquial.

A Case Report of Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy with Infusion Pump Implantation into the Antero-medial Thigh / The Japanese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine

Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy is used to treat patients with spasticity. The pump that delivers baclofen to the intrathecal space of the thoracolumbar spine is generally implanted under the skin or fascia of the anterolateral abdomen. Here we present a case in which the pump was implanted in an alternative site, under the skin of the anteromedial thigh. The patient was a 61-year-old man who was 148 cm tall. He had spastic paraplegia (ASIA Impairment Scale grade B) caused by severe scoliosis related to dystrophic neurofibromatosis. No safety space for pump implantation existed in his abdomen because of a stoma, scars, and adhesions that resulted from surgeries for ileus and abdominal aortic aneurysms. The catheter ran from the lumbar spine to the anteromedial thigh via the point between the iliac crest and the great trochanter. The catheter and pump caused no trouble over 1 year of follow-up. This case demonstrates that the thigh can be an alternative site for ITB pump implantation in some patients with abdominal wall problems. This surgical modification may not be indicated for some patients with ambulators or frequent hip motion, who are at risk of catheter problems or pump migration.

Practical value and thought on "co-regulation of body and mind" in treatment of post-stroke spasticity with acupuncture / 中国针灸

This paper reviews the application of "co-regulation of body and mind" of acupuncture for post-stroke spasticity. It is found that acupoints on the head and the back of the governor vessel, as well as Jiaji (Ex-B 2) points are mainly used for regulating the mind, and the local sites of spastic muscles and the points on the antagonistic muscles are for regulating the body specially. It is believed that regulating the mind should be integrated with regulating the body, while, the acupoint selection be associated with needling methods so as to fully achieve the "co-regulation of body and mind" and enhance the practical value of acupuncture for post-stroke spasticity. It is proposed that the classical anti-spastic needling techniques, such as huici (relaxing needling) and guanci (joint needling), should be more considered.

A Case Report of Intrathecal Baclofen Therapy with Infusion Pump Implantation into the Antero-medial Thigh / The Japanese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine

Intrathecal baclofen (ITB) therapy is used to treat patients with spasticity. The pump that delivers baclofen to the intrathecal space of the thoracolumbar spine is generally implanted under the skin or fascia of the anterolateral abdomen. Here we present a case in which the pump was implanted in an alternative site, under the skin of the anteromedial thigh. The patient was a 61-year-old man who was 148 cm tall. He had spastic paraplegia (ASIA Impairment Scale grade B) caused by severe scoliosis related to dystrophic neurofibromatosis. No safety space for pump implantation existed in his abdomen because of a stoma, scars, and adhesions that resulted from surgeries for ileus and abdominal aortic aneurysms. The catheter ran from the lumbar spine to the anteromedial thigh via the point between the iliac crest and the great trochanter. The catheter and pump caused no trouble over 1 year of follow-up. This case demonstrates that the thigh can be an alternative site for ITB pump implantation in some patients with abdominal wall problems. This surgical modification may not be indicated for some patients with ambulators or frequent hip motion, who are at risk of catheter problems or pump migration.