Development of an integrated conceptual model of multiple sclerosis spasticity.

Many people with multiple sclerosis (MS) have spasticity, generally in the lower limbs, but this symptom is complex and multidimensional and therefore difficult to characterize.MS spasticity may be influenced by moderators, triggers, modifiers, and treatment, all of which can affect objective measures and the subjective experience of spasticity.MS spasticity can have physical, functional, social, and emotional/psychological impacts as well as long-term consequences that can affect rehabilitation and ultimately reduce health-related quality of life for people with MS.Given that people with MS may view spasticity differently than their rehabilitation providers, providers should ask patients about their spasticity, including their moderators, triggers, modifiers, experience, impacts, long-term consequences, and effects on quality of life.This conceptual model provides a framework to improve clinician-patient dialogue, research, and rehabilitation for MS spasticity.