RESUMO
INTRODUCTION: Spasticity is a source of functional limitations in patients. It leads to weakening of muscles, reduced mobility, muscle fatigue and irreversible changes in tissues. The aim of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of local cryotherapy in patients with post-stroke spasticity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study was conducted in 56 patients with post-stroke spasticity. They were divided into two groups (Group 1 was administered cryotherapy and kinesitherapy and Group 2- kinesitherapy only). The researchers assessed the level of spasticity according to the Modified Ashworth Scale as well as functions of lower limbs, upper limbs and hands according to the Brunnström Scale twice (before and after the therapy). The findings were statistically analyzed. RESULTS: In the treatment groups decreased muscle tone. An improvement of the efficiency of locomotion and hand in performing activities of daily living. More favorable results were observed in group 1. CONCLUSIONS: Local cryotherapy combined with kinesitherapy appeared to be more effective in treating spasticity rather than kinesitherapy alone. A decrease in spasticity and an improvement of the limb function indicate a stabilization of muscular tension in patients with disorders upper motor neuron.
