Doug-Spasticity and Baclofen Pumps

Doug Part Three – Spasticity and Baclofen Pumps: http://tbivoices.com/blog/uncategorized/doug-dealing-with-spasticity-and-baclofen-pumps/

Doug talks about the spasticity he has on the left side of his body and the various treatments he has received for it. Spasticity is increased tension in a muscle which leads to an inability to relax. (It can result from problems in the brain (cortical spasticity) or from problems originating in the spine (spinal spasticity). Spasticity gives rise to increased muscle tone (hypertonia) and a cramping of the muscles as one tries to stretch them.

Botox and Baclofen are two drugs used to treat spasticity. Doug is currently being treated with the Baclofen pump, which automatically dispenses the drug into his system so that he doesn’t have to take so many pills. Doug reports better results with the Baclofen pump in treating his spasticity.

Next In Doug Part Four – Transitioning to the Real World