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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Distribución de patrones espásticos en extremidad superior posterior a un daño de motoneurona superior / Distribution of spastic patterns in upper extremity after an upper motor neuron syndrome

ANTECEDENTES: la evidencia sobre personas que presentan daño de motoneurona superior y desarrollan un patrón de espasticidad en extremidad superior (EES) es limitada. Este signo positivo de disfunción o secundario al daño de la motoneurona superior se asocia con pérdida de función y disminución de la independencia, provocando discapacidad y alterando la calidad de vida. OBJETIVO: determinar la distribución de frecuencias de los patrones de EES, muñeca, dedos y pulgar posterior a un daño de motoneurona superior. MÉTODO: diseño descriptivo de corte transversal prospectivo. Se realizó una medición a 206 sujetos pertenecientes a 17 centros de salud, quienes cumplieron con los criterios de inclusión y firmaron el consentimiento. La evaluación incluyó datos clínicos y la evaluación del patrón de EES (Clasificación de Hefter), muñeca, dedos (Zancolli adaptado) y pulgar (Clasificación de House). RESULTADOS: El análisis consideró cada una de las taxonomías de los patrones de EES evaluados (Hefter I a V). La distribución de frecuencias fue investigada mediante la prueba χ2 de bondad de ajuste, seguida de la inspección post hoc de los residuos estandarizados (z) en cada celda. Se identificaron frecuencias significativamente mayores en: el patrón III de extremidad superior, el patrón cubitalizado neutro de muñeca, el patrón del flexor profundo y mixto de Zancolli adaptado, y en los patrones 3, 4 del pulgar. Ninguna taxonomía se asoció al tiempo de evolución y tipo de ACV. CONCLUSIÓN: El estudio aporta evidencia relevante sobre la distribución frecuencia de patrones espásticos, posterior a un daño de motoneurona superior. La información proporcionada busca apoyar el proceso de decisión terapéutica potenciando la recuperación funcional de la extremidad superior.

BACKGROUND: The evidence regarding people who present superior motor neuron damage and develop a pattern of spasticity in the upper limb (SUL) is limited. This positive sign of the superior motor neuron is associated with both the loss of function and the decreased independence, causing disability and altering life quality. OBJECTIVE: to determine the frequency distribution of SUL, wrist, finger and thumb patterns after superior motor neuron damage. METHOD: prospective cross-sectional descriptive design, the sample consisted of 206 patients belonging to 17 health centers, who met the inclusion criteria and signed the informed consent, approved by the committee of ethics. The study considered a measurement, including clinical data and evaluation of the pattern of SUL (Hefter´s classification), wrist, fingers (adapted Zancolli) and thumb (House Classification). RESULTS: The analysis considered each of the taxonomies of evaluated patterns (Hefter´s I-V). Frequency distribution was investigated by χ2 goodness of fit tests, followed by post hoc inspection of standardized residues (z) in each cell. Significantly higher frequencies were identified in the upper limb pattern III, the neutral cubitalized wrist pattern, the adapted Zancolli deep flexor pattern and in the thumb patterns 3, 4. No taxonomy was associated with the evolution time and type of stroke. CONCLUSION: The study provides with relevant scientific evidence regarding the frequency distribution of spasticity patterns after superior motor neuron damage. The information provided can support the therapeutic decision process by enhancing the functional recovery of upper limb.

Tratamiento con toxina botulínica en niños con parálisis cerebral espástica. Análisis del tratamiento en tríceps sural durante 2017-2018 en el / Centro de Rehabilitación Infantil Teletón, Uruguay / Botulinum toxin in the treatment of children with spastic cerebral palsy. Analysis of sural tricep therapy during 2017-2018 at the Teletón Children's Rehabilitation Center, Uruguay / Tratamento com toxina botulínica em crianças com paralisia cerebral espástica. Análise do tratamento do tríceps sural durante 2017-2018 no Centro de Rehabilitación Infantil Teletón, Uruguai

Resumen: Introducción: la parálisis cerebral (PC) es la causa más frecuente de discapacidad motriz en niños y adolescentes. En el 85% de los casos, la manifestación motora predominante es la espasticidad. Las inyecciones de toxina botulínica tipo A (TB-A) se han usado para reducir la espasticidad en niños con PC. No existen investigaciones a nivel nacional que comprueben si los resultados son comparables a los reportados en la literatura. Objetivo: determinar el efecto del tratamiento con TB-A en el tríceps sural en conjunto con la rehabilitación física en niños con PC espástica durante los años 2017-2018 en el Centro de Rehabilitación Infantil Teletón, Uruguay. Métodos: se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo, de cohorte histórica única con seguimiento longitudinal, mediante la revisión de historias clínicas de los pacientes con PC con marcha independiente o asistida que recibieron tratamiento con TB-A para el tratamiento de la espasticidad del tríceps sural durante el período 2017-2018. Resultados: se analizaron 40 procedimientos de inyección de TB-A. Se observó una buena respuesta al mes y a los 3 meses del tratamiento con TB-A, con mejoría del ángulo de dorsiflexión del pie con la rodilla en flexión y en extensión, mejoría del puntaje de la escala de espasticidad de Ashworth modificada y, en el 95% de los procedimientos, de la percepción subjetiva de los padres. Se observó una disminución del efecto hacia los 6 meses de la aplicación. Conclusión: la aplicación de TB-A en el Centro Teletón muestra resultados positivos, comparables con los reportados en la bibliografía internacional.

Abstract: Introduction: cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common source of motor disability in children and adolescents. In 85% of cases, the prevailing motor manifestation is spasticity. Botulinum toxin Type A injections (TB-A) have been used to reduce spasticity in children with cerebral palsy (CP). There are no studies at the national level that show whether the results are comparable to those reported in literature. Objective: to determine the effect of TB-A therapy in the triceps surae along with the physical rehabilitation in children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP) during 2017-2018 at the Teleton Children´s Rehabilitation Center, Uruguay. Method: retrospective, descriptive study of a single cohort with a longitudinal follow-up was conducted, through the review of medical records belonging to patients with CP with independent or assisted gait, who received TB-A therapy to treat sural triceps spasticity during 2017-2018. Results: 40 TB-A injection procedures were analysed. A good response was observed one month and three months after being treated with TB-A, evidencing improvement in the dorsiflexion angle between the foot and the knee in flexion and extension, improvement on the modified Ashworth spasticity scale score and, in 95% of procedures, the subjective perception of parents. The effect was observed to decrease towards 6 months after the procedure. Conclusion: application of TB-A at the Teletón Center shows positive results, comparable to those reported by international blibliography.

Resumo: Introdução: a paralisia cerebral (PC) é a causa mais freqüente de deficiência motora em crianças e adolescentes. Em 85% dos casos, a manifestação motora predominante é a espasticidade. As injeções de toxina botulínica tipo A (TB-A) têm sido usadas para reduzir a espasticidade em crianças com PC. Não há pesquisas nacionais que verifiquem se os resultados são comparáveis aos relatados na literatura. Objetivo: determinar o efeito do tratamento da TB-A no tríceps sural em conjunto com a reabilitação física em crianças com PC espástica durante os anos 2017-2018 no Centro de Rehabilitación Infantil Teletón, Uruguai. Métodos: estudo descritivo, retrospectivo, com coorte histórica única com acompanhamento longitudinal, realizado por meio da revisão de prontuários de pacientes com PC com deambulação independente ou assistida que receberam tratamento com TB-A para o tratamento da espasticidade do tríceps sural, no período 2017-2018. Resultados: 40 procedimentos de injeção de TB-A foram analisados. Observou-se boa resposta um mês e três meses após o tratamento com TB-A, com melhora no ângulo de dorsiflexão do pé com o joelho em flexão e extensão, melhora no escore da escala de espasticidade de Ashworth modificada e, em 95% dos procedimentos, a partir da percepção subjetiva dos pais. Uma diminuição no efeito foi observada 6 meses após a aplicação. Conclusão: a aplicação do TB-A no Centro de Rehabilitación Infantil Teletón apresentou resultados positivos, comparáveis aos relatados na literatura internacional.

Toxina botulínica A e repercussões na capacidade para andar de indivíduos pós acidente vascular cerebral: revisão sistemática / Botulinum toxin A and repercussions on the ability to walk in individuals after a stroke: systematic review

A indicação da toxina botulínica do tipo A (TBA) para indivíduos com história de acidente vascular cerebral (AVC) é uma prática clínica comum para redução da espasticidade. Objetivo: Investigar se a ação da TBA sem associação com outras intervenções impacta na capacidade da atividade de andar nos indivíduos pós-AVC. Método: Revisão sistemática com estudos provenientes da Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, SciELO, PEDro e LILACS, em inglês e português, entre 2010 a 2020. Foram incluídos ensaios clínicos controlados, com participantes pós AVC submetidos a aplicação de TBA em idades entre 18 a 50 anos de ambos os sexos. A seleção dos artigos foi realizada por dois avaliadores, com extração dos dados e avaliação de qualidade da evidência pela PEDro, segundo critérios de inclusão e exclusão pré-estabelecidos. Resultados: Dos 183 artigos, quatro permaneceram para análise final. A aplicação da TBA em indivíduos pós AVC ocorreu em sua maioria em flexores plantares e os achados relacionados com a atividade andar foram o aumento da passada, da velocidade da marcha, de distâncias percorridas ao caminhar e redução do tempo de execução de ações, como subir e descer degraus. Conclusão: A TBA proporciona melhora da capacidade para andar em indivíduos pós AVC e o conhecimento dos seus benefícios pós aplicação é essencial para informar aos pacientes da importância de aproveitar este momento, para modificar comportamentos que acentuam os padrões de compensação, que tanto corroboram para o retorno de limitações de atividades e não devido ao término da ação da TBA.

The indication of botulinum toxin type A (BoNTA) for individuals with a history of stroke is a common clinical practice for reducing spasticity. Objective: To investigate whether the action of TBA without association with other interventions impacts on the ability of walking activity in post-stroke individuals. Method: A systematic review with studies from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, SciELO, PEDro, and LILACS databases, in English and Portuguese, between 2010 and 2020. Controlled clinical trials were included, with post-stroke participants aged between 18 and 50, of both sexes, submitted themselves to the application of BoNTA. The selection of the articles was carried out by two evaluators, with data extraction and quality evaluation of the evidence by PEDro, according to pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: Of the 183 articles, four remained for final analysis. The application of TBA in post-stroke individuals occurred mostly in plantar flexors and the findings related to walking activity were increased stride, gait speed, distances covered when walking and reduced time to perform actions, such as climbing and go down steps. Conclusion: TBA improves the ability to walk in post-stroke individuals and knowledge of its benefits after application is essential to inform patients of the importance of taking advantage of this moment,to modify behaviors that accentuate the compensation patterns, which so much corroborate for the return of activity limitations and not due to the termination of the TBA action.

Clinical observation on acupoint pressure plus long-snake moxibustion for upper-limb spastic hemiplegia after cerebral infarction / 针灸推拿医学（英文版）

Objective: To observe the clinical efficacy of acupoint pressure plus long-snake moxibustion for upper-limb spastic hemiplegia after cerebral infarction. Methods: A total of 100 patients were randomized into a control group and an observation group, with 50 cases in each group. Both groups were treated with the same conventional internal medicine and rehabilitation training. The control group was treated with additional acupoint pressure therapy, and the observation group was treated with long-snake moxibustion on the basis of the treatment given to the control group. The Ashworth grade, Fugl-Meyer assessment upper limb scale (FMA-UL) and Barthel index (BI) were evaluated, and the root mean square (RMS) values of biceps brachii and flexor carpi radialis on the affected side were measured before and after treatment. The efficacy was evaluated after treatment. Results: After treatment, the total effective rate of the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group (P<0.05). After treatment, the Ashworth grade of the observation group was superior to that of the control group (P<0.05). The scores of FMA-UL and BI in both groups increased compared with those before treatment (all P<0.05), and the scores of FMA-UL and BI in the observation group were higher than those in the control group (both P<0.05). The RMS values of biceps brachii and flexor carpi radialis in both groups decreased compared with those before treatment (all P<0.05), and the RMS values of biceps brachii and flexor carpi radialis in the observation group were lower than those in the control group (both P<0.05). Conclusion: Based on conventional internal medicine and rehabilitation training, acupoint pressure plus long-snake moxibustion has great therapeutic efficacy for upper-limb spastic hemiplegia after cerebral infarction. It can improve the degree of spasticity of the affected upper limb, reduce the muscle tone of biceps brachii and flexor carpi radialis on the affected side, and enhance the mobility of the affected limb and the activities of daily living.

Características epidemiológicas y clínicas de pacientes pediátricos con parálisis cerebral. Hospital Vicente Corral Moscoso. Cuenca, 2014 - 2015 / Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of pediatric patients with cerebral palsy. Vicente Corral Moscoso Hospital. Cuenca, 2014-2015

Objetivo: determinar las características epidemiológicas y clínicas de pacientes pediátricos con parálisis cerebral en el Hospital Vicente Corral Moscoso, Cuenca. 2014 - 2015. Metodología: estudio descriptivo de corte transversal, realizado en niños menores de 16 años con parálisis cerebral. Las variables de estudio, que se tomaron de las historias clínicas, fueron: características prenatales, natales y postnatales, condición socioeconómica, funcionalidad familiar, clínica de la parálisis cerebral (PC), comorbilidad. Se realizó análisis descriptivo. Resultados: se encontró 72 pacientes con edad media de 6.2 años (±4 DS), la edad media de diagnóstico fue a los 8 meses (±10.8 DS), el 80.6% presentó epilepsia, el 53.9% en TAC tuvo atrofia cerebral, en el 43.1% la causa de ingreso fue infección respiratoria. De los antecedentes prenatales y neonatales, el 54.2% fue ingresado en la unidad de neonatología, el 38.9% recibió reanimación, el 6.9% tuvo neuroinfección. El 42.1% de las familias de los niños tuvo condición socioeconómica media baja.Conclusiones: el perfil epidemiológico de los niños con PC del estudio, que no difiere de los resultados de otros estudios, orientan a la toma de decisiones en la conformación de equipos de atención en PC el Hospital (AU);

Objective: to determine the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of pediatric patients with cerebral palsy at the Vicente Corral Moscoso Hospital, Cuenca. 2015Methodology: it is a descriptive, cross-sectional study, performed in patients less than 16 years old with cerebral palsy. The study variables, which were taken from the medical records, were: prenatal, natal and postnatal characteristics, socioeconomic status, family functionality, symptoms of cerebral palsy (CP), comorbidity. A descriptive analysis was carried out.Results: 72 patients were found with a mean age of 6.2 years (± 4 SD), the mean age of diagnosis was 8 months (± 10.8 SD), 80.6% had epilepsy, 53.9% in CT had brain atrophy, and in 43.1% the cause of admission was respiratory infection. Of the prenatal and neonatal antecedents, 54.2% were admitted to the neonatology unit, 38.9% received resuscitation, and 6.9% had neuro-infection. The 42.1% of the children's families had low-medium socioeconomic status.Conclusions: The epidemiological profile of children with CP in the study, which does not differ from the results of other studies, guide decision-making in the formation of CP care teams in the Hospital (AU);

Tétanos y uso de toxina botulínica: reporte de caso / Tetanus and botulinum toxin use: report of a case

RESUMEN El tétanos es un trastorno del sistema nervioso caracterizado por espasmos musculares causados por las toxinas de Clostridium tetani, un bacilo anaerobio, que se encuentra en el suelo y cuyas esporas sobreviven en el ambiente y causan infección al contaminar las heridas. El objetivo de este reporte de caso es dar a conocer los aspectos básicos de esta enfermedad, hacer un enfoque en la mejoría de la funcionalidad con la aplicación de toxina botulínica tipo A para la espasticidad generalizada y el trismo. Presentamos el caso de una mujer de 81 años con tétanos generalizado y presencia de trismo con antecedente de traumatismo craneal secundario a caída desde su propia altura sin pérdida del conocimiento 15 días previos al ingreso a la institución de salud. Durante su estancia hospitalaria el tratamiento fue multidisciplinario. La paciente egresó en buenas condiciones generales con seguimiento en consulta externa.

ABSTRACT Tetanus is a condition affecting the central nervous system which is characterized by muscle spasms caused by toxins from Clostridium tetani, an anaerobe bacillus which is usually found on soil and whose spores may survive in the environment and lead to infection when contaminating open wounds. The objective of this case report is to review on the basic characteristics of this condition, focusing on functional improvement with the administration of type A botulinum toxin for generalized spasticity and lockjaw (trismus). We present the case of an 81-year-old woman with generalized tetanus and lockjaw after she suffered a head injury, she fell and hurt her head, with no loss of consciousness; and that was 15 days before admission. During her hospital stay she was managed by a multidisciplinary team. The patient did well, and she is currently being followed-up in the outpatient clinic.

Effect of An-pressing manipulation on post-stroke muscle spasticity in rats and its mechanism study / 针灸推拿医学（英文版）

Objective: To explore the mechanism of An-pressing manipulation in improving post-stroke muscle spasticity, by observing the changes of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glycine (Gly) in plasma and gray matter of L1-L3 spinal cord anterior horn in post-stroke rats with muscle spasticity after An-pressing manipulation intervention. Methods: Ten of 80 adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly selected as the blank group, and the remaining 70 were used for modeling. The middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat model was established by insertion suture occlusion method in the left external carotid artery. Thirty rats with a Longa neurological score of 2-3 points and a modified Ashworth spasticity scale score of 1-, 1+, or 2 were included in the experiment. Using the random number table method, the 30 successfully modeled rats were randomly divided into a model group, an An-pressing tendon group and an An-pressing muscle belly group. Two days after modeling, rats in the An-pressing tendon group and An-pressing muscle belly group received An-pressing manipulation on the tendon and belly of quadriceps femoris muscle respectively, with the pressure of (350±50) g and the frequency of 5 s/time, 15 min per session, once a day for 5 continuous days. After the 5th treatment, the tension of the rat quadriceps femoris muscle was evaluated using the modified Ashworth spasticity scale. The Gly levels in rat plasma and L1-L3 segments of spinal cord were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The GABA levels in rat plasma and L1-L3 segments of spinal cord were measured by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Results: The decrease in rat muscle tension scored by the modified Ashworth spasticity scale in the An-pressing tendon group was more significant than that in the An-pressing muscle belly group (P<0.01); the increases in Gly and GABA levels in the rat plasma and L1-L3 segments of spinal cord were more significant in the An-pressing tendon group than those in the An-pressing muscle belly group (all P<0.01). Conclusion: Based on the theory of 'anti-stretch reflex' of tendon organs, the use of An-pressing manipulation to induce the 'anti-stretch reflex' by stimulating the tendon organs can improve the muscle spasticity of rats, which is better than An-pressing the muscle belly. Increased levels of Gly and GABA in rat plasma and L1-L3 segments of spinalcord may be one mechanism of An-pressing manipulation to improve muscle spasticity by stimulating tendon organs.

Can the positions of the spastic upper limb in stroke survivors help muscle choice for botulinum toxin injections? / A posição do membro superior de indivíduos com doença cerebrovascular pode auxiliar na escolha de músculos para a injeção de toxina botulínica?

ABSTRACT Motor impairments in stroke survivors are prevalent and contribute to dependence in daily activities, pain and overall disability, which can further upper-limb disability. Treatment with botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) is indicated for focal spasticity and requires knowledge of biomechanics and anatomy to best select muscles to be injected in the limb. Objective: We aimed to describe the frequency of posture patterns in a Brazilian sample of stroke survivors and correlate them with recommendations of muscle selection for treatment with BoNT-A. Methods: Fifty stroke patients with spastic upper limbs scheduled for neuromuscular block were photographed and physically examined, to be classified by three independent evaluators according to Hefter's classification. Muscles that were injected with BoNT-A by their routine doctors were retrieved from medical charts. Results: Pattern III and IV were the most common (64.7%, 21.6%). We further subclassified pattern III according to the rotation of the shoulder, which effectively interfered in muscle choice. The muscles most frequently treated were shoulder adductors and internal rotators, elbow flexors and extensors, in forearm, the pronator teres and finger and wrist flexors, and, in the hand the adductor pollicis. Conclusion: Frequencies of upper-limb postures differed from previous reports. Other clinical features, besides spasticity, interfered with muscle choice for BoNT-A injection, which only partially followed the recommendations in the literature.

RESUMO As deficiências motoras que ocorrem nos indivíduos com doença cerebrovascular (DCV) são prevalentes e contribuem para dependência, dor e incapacidade, o que pode atrasar a reabilitação do membro superior e sua funcionalidade. O tratamento com toxina botulínica do tipo A (BoNT-A) é indicado para a espasticidade focal e requer conhecimento da biomecánica e anatomia para melhor selecionar os músculos a serem injetados. Objetivo: Descrever a frequência de padrões posturais numa amostra de brasileiros com sequelas de DCV e correlacioná-los com as recomendações de seleção de músculos. Métodos: Cinquenta pacientes com comprometimento do membro superior devido a DCV do ambulatório de bloqueios neuromusculares foram fotografados e examinados para categorização de acordo com a Classificação de Hefter. Os músculos tratados pelos seus médicos de rotina foram obtidos a partir dos prontuários. Resultados: Os padrões III e IV de Hefter foram mais comuns (64,7%; 21,6%). Nós propusemos a subclassificação do padrão III de acordo com a rotação do ombro, pois isso interferiu na escolha dos músculos tratados. Os músculos tratados com maior frequência foram os adutores e rotadores internos do ombro; flexores e extensores do cotovelo; no antebraço, o pronador redondo, flexores dos dedos e do carpo e na mão, o adutor do polegar. Conclusão: As frequências das posições do membro superior diferiram de relatos prévios. Além da espasticidade, outros fatores interferiram na escolha dos músculos tratados, que seguiram parcialmente as recomendações da literatura.

Efeitos da crioterapia associada à cinesioterapia e da estimulação elétrica em pacientes hemiparéticos espásticos / Efectos de la crioterapia asociada a la cinesioterapia y de la estimulación eléctrica en pacientes hemiparéticos espásticos / Effects of cryotherapy associated with kinesiotherapy and electrical stimulation on spastic hemiparetic patients

RESUMO A espasticidade causada pelo acidente vascular encefálico (AVE) é uma das principais causas de incapacidade funcional no membro superior. O objetivo do estudo foi verificar o efeito da crioterapia associada à cinesioterapia e da estimulação elétrica na capacidade de preensão palmar do membro espástico de pacientes com AVE na fase crônica. Participaram do estudo 40 pacientes com idade média de 60,5 (±9,45) anos e hemiparesia espástica, divididos aleatoriamente em grupo A (GA): submetidos à crioterapia nos músculos flexores de punho e cinesioterapia nos músculos flexores e extensores de punho; e grupo B (GB): submetidos à estimulação elétrica nos músculos extensores de punho. A capacidade de preensão palmar foi avaliada por meio de um dinamômetro de bulbo antes, depois de 16 atendimentos e um mês após o término do tratamento. Os resultados demonstraram que houve aumento da capacidade de preensão palmar no GA (p=0,0244) e GB (p=0,0144) após o tratamento, com manutenção um mês após seu término (p=0,6002 e 0,3066 respectivamente), sem diferença estatística entre estes. Os achados apontam que ambos os recursos terapêuticos foram eficazes para o aumento da capacidade de preensão palmar dos participantes do estudo.

RESUMEN La espasticidad causada por el accidente cerebrovascular (ACV) es una de las principales causas de incapacidad funcional en el miembro superior. El objetivo del estudio fue verificar el efecto de la crioterapia asociada a la cinesioterapia y de la estimulación eléctrica en la capacidad de prensión palmar del miembro espástico de pacientes con ACV en fase crónica. Participaron del estudio 40 pacientes con edad media de 60,5 (±9,45) años y hemiparesia espástica, divididos aleatoriamente en grupo A (GA) -sometidos a la crioterapia en los músculos flexores del puño y cinesioterapia en los músculos flexores y extensores del puño - y grupo B (GB) - sometidos a la estimulación eléctrica en los músculos extensores del puño. Se evaluó la capacidad de prensión palmar por medio de un dinamómetro neumático antes del tratamiento, después de 16 atendimientos y un mes después del término del tratamiento. Los resultados demostraron un aumento de la capacidad de prensión palmar en el GA (p=0,0244) y en el GB (p=0,0144) después del tratamiento, con mantenimiento un mes después de su término (p=0,6002 y 0,3066 respectivamente), sin diferencia estadística entre éstos. Los hallazgos apuntan que ambos recursos terapéuticos fueron eficaces para aumentar la capacidad de prensión palmar de los participantes del estudio.

ABSTRACT Spasticity caused by stroke is a cause of functional disability of the upper extremity. The aim of this study was to check the effect of cryotherapy associated with kinesiotherapy and electrical stimulation on the palmar grip strength of the spastic limb of stroke patients in the chronic phase. Forty patients whose mean age was 60.5 (±9.45) years old and who had spastic hemiparesis participated in the study, having been randomly sorted into group A (GA): submitted to cryotherapy on the wrist flexors and kinesiotherapy on the wrist flexors and wrist extensors, and Group B (GB): submitted to electrical stimulation on the wrist extensors. Palmar grip strength was evaluated by a bulb dynamometer before, after 16 sessions and one month after the end of treatment. The results showed that there was an increase in palmar grip strength in GA (p=0.0244) and GB (p=0.0144) after treatment, with maintenance one month after its completion (p=0.6002 and 0.3066, respectively), and no statistical difference was observed between them. The findings indicate that both therapeutic resources were effective in increasing the study participants' palmar grip strength.

O fenol como agente neurolítico no tratamento da espasticidade focal e multifocal / Phenol as a neurolithic agent in the treatment of focal and multifocal spasticity

A síndrome piramidal ocorre nas lesões do sistema nervoso central que afetam as vias corticoespinhais e são definidas pela tríade de fraqueza muscular, aumento dos reflexos miotáticos e espasticidade, que é definida pelo aumento involuntário da resistência ao movimento passivo cuja intensidade varia com a velocidade do movimento. Quando a espasticidade interfere na funcionalidade do paciente, dificultando o movimento ativo, causando dor ou dificultando a prestação de cuidados por terceiros, há necessidade de iniciar seu tratamento. Para o tratamento da espasticidade generalizada ou de grandes porções do corpo, a intervenção medicamentosa ocorre por via oral ou intratecal, conforme os recursos disponíveis, mas efeitos colaterais de intensidade variável e indesejáveis podem ocorrer, especialmente o comprometimento da atenção ou da consciência, que prejudicam o processo de reabilitação. O tratamento focal da espasticidade utiliza a toxina botulínica ou os bloqueios nervosos com fenol ou álcool. Este artigo revisa a literatura sobre as técnicas mais adequadas para realizar a neurólise com fenol. Os bloqueios neuromusculares com fenol são um tratamento efetivo, de ação imediata, baixo custo, duração prolongada e de poucos efeitos adversos quando são respeitados os cuidados regulares de aplicação.

The pyramidal syndrome occurs in central nervous system injuries that affect the corticospinal pathways and are defined by the triad of muscular weakness, increased myotatic reflexes and spasticity, which is defined by the involuntary increase in resistance to passive movement that varies in intensity according to the velocity of joint movement. When spasticity interferes with the patient's functioning, making it difficult to actively move, causing pain, or making it difficult to receive care from others, treatment must be stated. For the treatment of generalized spasticity or for large portions of the body, drug intervention may be used either orally or intrathecally, depending on available resources, but undesirable and variable intensity side effects may occur, especially impairment of attention or awareness, which further delays the rehabilitation process. Focal treatment of spasticity utilizes botulinum toxin or nerve blocks with phenol or alcohol. This article reviews the literature on the most suitable techniques for performing phenol neurolysis. Neuromuscular blockade with phenol is an effective treatment, with immediate action, low cost, prolonged duration and few adverse effects when the regular care of application is respected.

Clinical application of endoscope combined with microscope for the microvascular decompression in hemifacial spasm / 中华耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective@#To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of the endoscope combined with microscope for the microvascular decompression in hemifacial spasm.@*Methods@#A total of 26 patients underwent endoscope combined with microscopic facial nerve microvascular decompression through retrolabyrinthine approach from January 2013 to December 2016 were retrospectively reviewed in Ear Institute, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine. Among them, 9 were male and 17 were female, with a mean age of (51.9±11.4) years;15 cases of left side and 11 of right side patients were followed up for 1-3 years. The pre-and post-operative Cohen Classification was used for hemifacial spasm, House-Brackmann Grade for facial nerve function, hearing level and complication rates were reviewed. SPSS 19.0 software was used to analyze the data.@*Results@#All 26 patients were operated successfully. No recurrence was seen during 1-3 year follow-up. Post-operative Cohen Grade were as follows: 25 cases with Cohen Grade I and 1 case with Cohen Grade II. The difference in Cohen grade between pre-and post-operative was statistically significant (Z=-4.87, P<0.01). Post-operative facial nerve function was satisfactory in all patients (House-Brackmann Grade I-II in all patients). No hearing loss was observed. No facial paralysis and other lower cranial nerve dysfunction were observed. No postoperative complications such as cerebrospinal fluid leakage occurred.@*Conclusions@#Using an angled endoscope combined with microscope in microvascular decompression in hemifacial spasmis is safe and effective.

Safe Needle Insertion Locations for Motor Point Injection of the Triceps Brachii Muscle: A Pilot Cadaveric and Ultrasonography Study

OBJECTIVE: To determine the location of the motor endplate zones (MoEPs) for the three heads of the triceps brachii muscles during cadaveric dissection and estimate the safe injection zone using ultrasonography.METHODS: We studied 12 upper limbs of 6 fresh cadavers obtained from body donations to the medical school anatomy institution in Seoul, Korea. The locations of MoEPs were expressed as the percentage ratio of the vertical distance from the posterior acromion angle to the midpoint of the olecranon process. By using the same reference line as that used for cadaveric dissection, the safe injection zone away from the neurovascular bundle was identified in 6 healthy volunteers via ultrasonography. We identified the neurovascular bundle and its location with respect to the distal end of the humerus and measured its depth from the skin surface.RESULTS: The MoEPs for the long, lateral, and medial heads were located at a median of 43.8%, 54.8%, and 60.4% of the length of the reference line in cadaver dissection. The safe injection zone of the medial head MoEPs corresponded to a depth of approximately 3.5 cm from the skin surface and 1.4 cm away from the humerus, as determined by sonography.CONCLUSION: Correct identification of the motor points for each head of the triceps brachii would increase the precision and efficacy of motor point injections to manage elbow extensor spasticity.

Intrathecal Baclofen Dosage for Long-Term Treatment of Patients With Spasticity Due to Traumatic Spinal Cord Injuries or Multiple Sclerosis

OBJECTIVE: To investigate dosage changes in intrathecal baclofen during long-term treatment of patients with severe leg spasticity. METHODS: We performed a retrospective chart review of 49 patients treated with an intrathecal baclofen pump (ITB) because of severe leg spasticity, for a minimum of 7 years. Eight patients were excluded due to catheter/pump failure or factors aggravating spasticity. Of the remaining 41 patients, 19 had spinal cord injury (SCI) and 22 were diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Among the SCI patients, 15 had cervical and 4 thoracic SCI, with 7 patients showing the American Spinal Injury Association impairment scale (AIS) A and 12 patients with AIS B–D. The dose was regulated by discussion among the patients and their physicians, usually 4–10 times annually, to reduce leg spasticity and also avoid leg/trunk weakness. RESULTS: After 1 year patients on ITB needed a median dose of 168 mg/24 hr (range, 30–725 mg) for an optimal effect. After 7 to 10 years the dosage needed to reduce leg spasticity in the MS patients was significantly increased compared with the initial dose (mean 157%, n=22 and mean 194%, n=18). In contrast, the SCI patients needed only a modest increase (mean 113% and 121%). The difference between MS and SCI patients was significant (t-test p=0.006 and p=0.004). CONCLUSION: The increased dosage in MS patients compared with patients diagnosed with SCI probably reflects the progressive disease course. The need for a large dosage increase in patients with SCI suggests possible pump failure, triggering factors for spasticity or progressive spinal disease.

Niemann-Pick Disease Type C Misdiagnosed as Cerebral Palsy: A Case Report

Niemann-Pick disease type C (NP-C) is a rare autosomal recessive neurovisceral lysosomal lipid storage disorder. The clinical manifestations of the disorder are variable. This report describes the case of a 27-month-old girl with NP-C whose condition had been misdiagnosed as spastic cerebral palsy (CP). She had spasticity, particularly at both ankles, and gait disturbance. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed findings suspicious of sequelae from a previous insult, such as periventricular leukomalacia, leading to the diagnosis of CP. However, she had a history of hepatosplenomegaly when she was a fetus and her motor development had deteriorated, with symptoms of vertical supranuclear gaze palsy, cataplexy, and ataxia developing gradually. Therefore, NP-C was considered and confirmed with a genetic study, which showed mutation of the NPC1 gene. Thus, if a child with CP-like symptoms presents with a deteriorating course and NP-C-specific symptoms, NP-C should be cautiously considered.

The Role of Regular Physical Therapy on Spasticity in Children With Cerebral Palsy

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of physical therapy (PT) intervention on spasticity in patients with cerebral palsy (CP), and to assess the degree of deterioration of spasticity when regular PT is interrupted in those patients. METHODS: We recruited 35 children with spastic CP who visited our hospital for PT, and whose Modified Tardieu Scale (MTS) scores were serially recorded including before and after a 10-day public holiday time frame period. The outcome measures were the angle of range of motion (ROM) of dorsiflexion of the ankle joint (R1 and R2) in the knee flexion and extension positions as assessed using the MTS. RESULTS: The range of dorsiflexion of the ankle joint (R1 and R2) after the holiday period was significantly decreased as compared with that measured ROM noted before the holiday period, regardless of the knee position, age, or gross motor function. The dynamic component of the MTS (R2–R1) showed a slight decrease in the knee flexion position. CONCLUSION: Interruption of regular PT aggravated spasticity and decreased ankle joint ROM in children with spastic CP. Our findings suggest that regular PT in the care continuum for children with CP is crucial for the maintenance of ROM in the spastic ankle joints.