Which non-pharmacologic approach is commonly used to manage spasticity after traumatic brain injury?

Which non-pharmacologic approach is commonly used to manage spasticity after traumatic brain injury?

• A. Physical therapy
• B. Botulinum toxin injections
• C. Oral baclofen
• D. Oral tizanidine

Answer: (A)

Spasticity after traumatic brain injury comes from upper motor neuron damage that makes muscles more likely to resist being moved, especially with rapid stretches. The most common nonpharmacologic way to address this is through physical therapy, which focuses on lengthening tight muscles, preserving joint range of motion, and improving functional use of the limbs. Regular stretching and passive or active range-of-motion exercises help prevent contractures and reduce resistance to movement, while positioning, splinting, and functional training keep joints aligned and teach safer, more efficient movement patterns. Strengthening the opposing (antagonist) muscles and practicing daily activities support better motor control and independence. Importantly, these benefits come without drug-related side effects and can be started early and continued long term. Pharmacologic options like oral baclofen or oral tizanidine depress the nervous system to lower tone, and botulinum toxin injections are targeted pharmacologic treatments; they can be useful but are not nonpharmacologic, which is why physical therapy is the standout nonpharmacologic approach.

Spasticity after traumatic brain injury comes from upper motor neuron damage that makes muscles more likely to resist being moved, especially with rapid stretches. The most common nonpharmacologic way to address this is through physical therapy, which focuses on lengthening tight muscles, preserving joint range of motion, and improving functional use of the limbs.

Regular stretching and passive or active range-of-motion exercises help prevent contractures and reduce resistance to movement, while positioning, splinting, and functional training keep joints aligned and teach safer, more efficient movement patterns. Strengthening the opposing (antagonist) muscles and practicing daily activities support better motor control and independence. Importantly, these benefits come without drug-related side effects and can be started early and continued long term.

Pharmacologic options like oral baclofen or oral tizanidine depress the nervous system to lower tone, and botulinum toxin injections are targeted pharmacologic treatments; they can be useful but are not nonpharmacologic, which is why physical therapy is the standout nonpharmacologic approach.