Multiple Sclerosis and Spasticity

Helpful First Aid For Managing Spasticity

• If the legs spasm into a straight extension, slowly force knees apart and lift your hips and your knees carefully up into a slightly bent position (you may need help).
• If trunk and leg straightening spasms make getting into a car difficult, curl your head and shoulders towards your chest.
• If your muscles rapidly contract and relax, take the tension off the muscle then stretch it slowly. For instance, with a calf clonus (where the calf muscles rhythmically contract and relax) lift the leg—with assistance, if necessary—to allow the foot to point down, and then slowly replace your foot on the floor—or footplate if you use a wheelchair. Where clonus causes ‘tap-dancing’ for those in a seated position, use firm downward pressure on the knee. This forces the heel flat on the ground and will calm the spastic reaction (pushing the foot down only makes it worse).
• If you sit for most of the day (e.g. in a wheelchair) try to take some time in other positions. Stand for a minute or so (with the help of a support person), or stretch out on the bed or floor. If you can manage occasional stretches of the hips and knees, this will reduce the chance of triggering an extension spasm. If you are able to be upright for a short while, a good stretch is to stand and bend your head and neck forward, keeping your legs apart. It may help to use a handrail and/or support person.