[How to treat spasticity after stroke ?]

Spasticity is a form of hypertonia frequently encountered in patients who suffered from stroke and is a cause of functional limitation, contractures, osteoarticular deformations, pain and wounds. The first-line treatment of focal or multifocal spasticity consists in intramuscular injections of botulinum toxin type A in the muscles concerned, in association with positioning measures and physical therapy. Despite the fact this pathology is common, there is often a delay in the diagnosis, and consequently the treatment, leading to harmful consequences for the patient. In some specific indications, surgery can also be a therapeutic option. Finally, spasticity should be distinguished from other types of hypertonia, e.g. dystonia.