For Canadians suffering from paralysis, it seems like the list of medical conditions and complications that can develop as a result of the paralysis are endless.
One of these side effects that most people have never heard of until they suffer a paralyzing injury is called spasticity.
Uncontrollable muscle movements are common
Spasticity relates to symptoms of mild muscle stiffness and uncontrollable muscle movements, which are commonly experienced by people who become paralyzed.
The full medical term for this condition is spastic hypertonia.
Beyond uncontrollable muscle movements and muscle stiffness, spasticity can also involve symptoms of increased muscle tone, rapid muscle twitches and contractions, scissoring (or involuntary leg crossing), fixed joints, muscle spasms and overly active deep tendon reflexes.
In addition to people who suffer paralysis, those suffering from multiple sclerosis, brain trauma and cerebral palsy might also experience these symptoms.
Connection to spinal cord or brain damage
According to doctors, spasticity relates to spinal cord and/or brain damage to areas that control voluntary muscle contractions and movements.
Nerve messages stop flowing properly through these areas and as the spinal cord tries to moderate the flow of nerve messages, spastic movements and contractions may occur.
Think of it like an electrical problem with an automobile. If the wires are broken, things will not function the way they should.
Car accidents a major cause of spasticity
Spinal cord injuries and spasticity are usually caused by traumatic accidents — for example, a car crash.
In cases where a car crash is caused by another person’s negligence, people who are injured may have a viable claim for damages against the at-fault party.
If successfully navigated, such a claim could bring injured parties financial compensation to pay for medical therapies, disabilities and other costs associated with their injuries.
What are some other side effects you have suffered as a result of paralysis?
