Use of botulinum toxin in the treatment of ankle plantar flexor spasticity in children with cerebral palsy

J Pediatr Orthop B. 2014 Nov;23(6):517-22. doi: 10.1097/BPB.0000000000000098.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of botulinum on spasticity of gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. Forty-one children with spastic cerebral palsy were assessed (muscle tone, range of motion of ankle joint extension with straightened and bent knee, and gait pattern using the Physician Rating Scale) before administration and 2, 6, and 13 weeks after. Changes on Physician Rating Scale and dorsiflexion with extended knee were significant after 2, 6, and 13 weeks. Differences in the remaining parameters were significant after the first two check-ups. Over 90% of the changes were positive. This research confirms the effectiveness of botulinum in reducing spasticity, increasing the range of motion, and improving the gait pattern.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Ankle Joint / physiopathology*
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / therapeutic use*
  • Cerebral Palsy / drug therapy*
  • Cerebral Palsy / physiopathology
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Gait / drug effects
  • Gait / physiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle Spasticity / drug therapy*
  • Muscle Spasticity / etiology
  • Muscle Tonus / physiology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / drug effects*
  • Neuromuscular Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Range of Motion, Articular

Substances

  • Neuromuscular Agents
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A