All about high tone - Spasticity - describes something that happens to our muscles when we have an upper motor neuron injury.

A discovery of more than just a simple understanding of the ‘elastic band’ theory, especially within the context of cerebral palsy. Spasticity is another diagnosis that originates from the injured brain either at birth or post birth or even the spinal cord. It is a common reason why we observe disruption of muscle movement patterns in our children and young people. I understand now that spasticity is all about a "velocity dependent" increase in tone - it's not just tightness.

These ‘annoying’ movements can seem jerky and feel like muscle tightness and joint stiffness, all of which can be frustrating for our kids. Our children work hard, in and out of therapy to stabilise and balance their body for the simple act of standing, taking steps or reaching out. I have come to realise though that in order to get to that end movement, it can be the cause of a lot of cognitive and physical exhaustion, not to mention pain.

As a parent, this chat was an eye opener because I came to realise how spasticity can contribute to daily life - everything that they want to do during the day as well as how they can go to sleep and rest.

Dr Dayna highlights how spasticity affects our children from day to day and how we can also embrace "chill time" in amongst all the things we have to do. She also discusses the role of botulinum toxin type A, surgery, therapy and strengthening.