Spasticity in Focus, Expert Conversations in PM&R: Building a Network with Your Community-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The session was a panel discussion on building community-based spasticity care networks in PM&R. Sharon Papalewski opened with housekeeping notes about the recording, member community resources, and ways to engage. Drs. Verduzco Gutierrez, Burrus, and Hafner then outlined strategies for developing and expanding spasticity services.<br /><br />Key themes included identifying and activating referral sources such as inpatient rehab, SNFs/LTACs, stroke centers, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedics, plastics, primary care, therapists, schools, support groups, nonprofits, and social media. The speakers emphasized that strong spasticity programs often grow from a small number of committed stakeholders, especially therapists and acute/post-acute partners who recognize spasticity early and refer appropriately.<br /><br />They stressed the importance of building multidisciplinary relationships through direct communication, shared goals, secure messaging, letters, videos, and regular check-ins. Therapists were highlighted as essential collaborators because they see patients frequently and can provide detailed functional feedback. Other tools discussed included websites, paper materials, lectures, patient storytelling, and registries.<br /><br />The panel also reviewed barriers to access: referral friction, insurance authorization, scheduling delays, equipment limitations, and poor communication between systems. Suggested solutions included dedicated procedure days, prior auth support, pharma rep assistance, adequate equipment, and streamlined clinic workflows.<br /><br />In closing, the speakers encouraged attendees to be proactive, educational, and relationship-driven when growing spasticity practices, with a broader framing such as “stroke recovery clinic” helping referral sources understand the service. A Q&A followed, including advice for residents starting practice and a discussion of distinguishing spasticity from peritonus/perseverative tone-related presentations.

Keywords

spasticity care

PM&R

community-based networks

referral sources

multidisciplinary collaboration

therapists

stroke recovery clinic

insurance authorization

clinic workflows

patient access