Pediatric Rehabilitation Lecture Series: The Other Half of Spasticity: local changes and targeted treatment of muscles affected by upper motor neuron disease (enduring material)-The Other Half of Spasticity

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Ray Stanford discusses the topic of soft tissue changes in upper motor neuron diseases as the other half of spasticity. He explains that while spasticity is typically associated with neurologic issues, immobility and lack of continuous motion can also contribute to stiffness and range of motion issues. Dr. Stanford delves into the role of hyaluronic acid in lubricating and facilitating movement of muscle fibers, as well as its accumulation with immobility. He introduces the hyaluronan hypothesis, which suggests that the build-up of hyaluronic acid can lead to fibrosis and muscle stiffness. Dr. Stanford explores the use of hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid, as a potential treatment option. He also highlights the potential benefits of collagenase injection in reducing fibrosis and stiffness in muscles. This lecture raises questions about the impact of soft tissue changes on resistance to stretch and range of motion, and encourages further research into these areas.

Keywords

soft tissue changes

upper motor neuron diseases

spasticity

immobility

hyaluronic acid

fibrosis

range of motion