ABSTRACT
Experiments in man have not always had encouraging clinical results, as demonstrated by Foerster's use of total dorsal rhizotomy for spasticity leading to deafferentation. The complexity of the condition, progress in the clinical management of spasticity has been slow. Cerebral palsy is a common disabling condition in childhood that encompasses a large spectrum of conditions. Clinical experience with adults affected by cerebral palsy confirms that spasticity is usually a long-term phenomenon. Spasticity and contracture are not necessarily problems that require treatment. Stretching forms an essential component of maintenance therapy for children with spastic cerebral palsy. Benzodiazepines, most notably diazepam, have been investigated for spasticity management in cerebral palsy. Botulinum toxin type A has been used in the management of spasticity in cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy produces a complex pattern of histological, physiological, and structural changes in muscles with weakness, shortening, and spasticity.
