In today’s video, Tara Mon, a respected neurologic physical therapist, sheds light on understanding and addressing spasticity, a common challenge after neurologic injuries. This underlying issue primarily affects movement, manifesting as involuntary muscle contractions which, if improperly managed, worsen over time.

Spasticity occurs due to brain or spinal cord damage and is characterized by involuntary muscular contractions which react to speed, also known as velocity-dependent contractions. Notably, spasticity is distinct from dystonia or muscle contracture, as it specifically results from neurologic impairments in areas evident through imaging.

If spasticity remains uncontrolled, it may develop into contractures—situations where muscles adaptively shorten, reducing flexibility and movement range. This highlights the essential need to interrupt these cycles through therapeutic interventions.

Tara emphasizes maintaining a consistent exercise routine as key to managing spasticity. This includes a trifecta approach—prolonged stretching, speed-based resistance training, and activation of antagonist muscles—to lessen muscle-contraction noise, metaphorically turning 'down the volume.'

• Stretching: Holding stretches for a minimum of one minute to prevent prolonged shortening of the muscle.
• Speed Training: Rhythmic exercises that increase muscle exposure to quick lengthening, reducing biased contraction response over time.
• Antagonist Activation: Engage muscles opposite the affected ones, possibly with electrical stimulation, to promote relaxation and counteract spastic behavior.

Despite the challenges, Tara encourages perseverance in practicing prescribed exercises, underscoring the importance of maintaining muscle flexibility to prevent setbacks. Consistently employing spasticity management interventions safeguards against deterioration, even in advanced recovery phases.