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Mind and Body: A Winning Team in Stress Management

While spasticity affects more than 12 million people worldwide- including 80% of MS patients- its causes, effects and treatments are not clearly understood. Spasticity is a condition in which certain muscles continuously and uncontrollably contract, causing stiffness and tightness of the muscles.  This may produce painful spasms of extremities, and left untreated, can lead to serious complications on functional abilities.  

Starting with an overview of the central nervous system and why spasticity occurs, Gail Hartley (Nurse Practitioner) and Kathy SanMartino (Physical Therapist) will help you understand and manage this complex symptom.  What factors cause and aggravate spasticity?  What are the signs and symptoms?  Does spasticity have beneficial effects?  What medications and injections are recommended?  How can exercise and physical therapy help with the management of spasticity?  How can you incorporate wellness-based spasticity treatments into your daily lives?  What members of your health care team should you consult?