5 replies to this topic

[mel2446]

All SCI in 96, have regained some motor and sensory function but still reliant on w/chair for both mobility and independence, recently my neurologist advised me I was developing some contractures, which by all accounts is caused by me suffering from spasticity in affected muscles

Therefore, my questions are as follows

1. What is a contracture
2. How can they be treated i.e. surgical or physio
3. What if any medication will assist the treatment - been on baclofen and daiazpan since illness
4. Also, recently had bone density scan, advised have osteoporosis in lower back and hips, will this have any impact on my condition

Thanks for taking time to read this post, look forward to some replies

Regards
Mel

[Millard]

mel2446, on 23 January 2011 - 01:06 PM, said:

All SCI in 96, have regained some motor and sensory function but still reliant on w/chair for both mobility and independence, recently my neurologist advised me I was developing some contractures, which by all accounts is caused by me suffering from spasticity in affected muscles

Therefore, my questions are as follows

1. What is a contracture
2. How can they be treated i.e. surgical or physio
3. What if any medication will assist the treatment - been on baclofen and daiazpan since illness
4. Also, recently had bone density scan, advised have osteoporosis in lower back and hips, will this have any impact on my condition

Thanks for taking time to read this post, look forward to some replies

Regards
Mel

Hi Mel,

#1. A contracture is a shortening of muscle and tendons. (Paralysis or non-use)
#2. Preferably treated by physio but if severe, can be treated by surgery.
#3. I don't know of any medication for this.
#4. Osteoporosis should not have any impact on your treatment or results.

Good luck.

[megatrig]

mel2446, on 23 January 2011 - 01:06 PM, said:

All SCI in 96, have regained some motor and sensory function but still reliant on w/chair for both mobility and independence, recently my neurologist advised me I was developing some contractures, which by all accounts is caused by me suffering from spasticity in affected muscles

Therefore, my questions are as follows

1. What is a contracture
2. How can they be treated i.e. surgical or physio
3. What if any medication will assist the treatment - been on baclofen and daiazpan since illness
4. Also, recently had bone density scan, advised have osteoporosis in lower back and hips, will this have any impact on my condition

Thanks for taking time to read this post, look forward to some replies

Regards
Mel

I second Millard.

Avoid surgery to quickly.

I guess that you haven't been able to "work" some muscle groups?

Join a gym and get a proper assesment and a good regime to work out to.

This should help with a lot of what you said.

It surprises me............well it doesn't anymore sadly...............that your consultant didn't go through this with you!

Hope that helps,

David

Edited by megatrig, 23 January 2011 - 06:27 PM.

[Tetracyclone]

Osteoporosis will limit how hard a PT can safely tug on contracted muscles and tendons.

[tyvin]

Where are the contractures developing? I will take it you are being treated for the osteoporosis and therefore treatment to pull or tug is not hampered. Usually splints/braces are ordered for contractures. Dyna Splints are what was going to be used to treat severe bilateral leg contractures that I had (due to being bed bound for <1 year; I had amnesia and wasn't moved, no exercise, ROM, nothing). When I got my memory back I couldn't fit in a wheelchair the contractures were so severe. The physatrist tried the Dyna Splints but it was too late and I ended up haveing bilatral contracture release surgery. My legs are now in-front of me as opposed to being almost stuck to my butt and the knees frozen.

Take all possible steps to control the contractures now. Message your legs daily and do ROM exercise as often as you can (x3 a day). Stretch and message and don't let them freeze up on you. Contractures also develop from non-use so use them as much as possible.

[mel2446]

All - Huge thanks for all the excellent advice and guidance, really do appreciate it.

Regards
Mel