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Are Baclofen And Botox Effective Medication For Unilateral Spasticity Of The Leg?

Posted on Thu, 8 Jun 2017

Question: Hi I have a mild case of cerebral palsy effecting my left. I have high cognitive ability and the only outwardly sign of the disability is that I walk with a limp on my left. I have done physical therapy and utilize different stretching techniques to combat the tightness in my legs. I have noticed when I am tired, stressed or feeling anxiety my limp becomes much more pronounced. At some points its almost like I am dragging my left leg. (This can be extremely distressing in work place settings) I have looked in to some medication such as baclofen but am apprehensive because I do not wanted to become dependent on pills. Can you give me a little for more information on this drug. Also would botox be viable treatment option. Thank you for your time in advance.

Answered by Dr. Sudhir Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Botox injections would be better.

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for posting your query.

I am Dr Sudhir Kumar, Neurologist, and I would try my best to help you.

I have noted your clinical details. Based on this, you seem to be suffering from spasticity on the left side.

Baclofen is a safe and effective treatment for spasticity. It helps in milder forms of spasticity and there is no risk of dependence with this drug. It is generally safe, except that it may cause sleepiness in some people. As I said, it helps little bit and significant relief does not occur.

Botox injections are much more effective in treating spasticity in cerebral palsy. The injection is directly given in stiff muscles. It helps a great bit and is also very safe. There are usually no side effects. The only drawback is that the effect lasts for three months only and we need to repeat injections every three months.

I hope my answer helps. Please get back if you have any follow up queries or if you require any additional information.

Wishing you good health,

Dr Sudhir Kumar MD (Internal Medicine), DM (Neurology) XXXXXXX Consultant Neurologist
Apollo Hospitals, XXXXXXX XXXXXXX
Click on this link to ask me a DIRECT QUERY: XXXX
My BLOG: XXXX

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Sudhir Kumar (12 hours later)

Thanks for the great response. I was doing some research on Botox injections and I read that Botox is only administered in cases of extreme spasiscity. Is this the case. I would classify my case as moderate to mild spasiscity. Also what type of dr would administer the Botox injection. Thank you for your time. The great advice is much appreciated

Answered by Dr. Sudhir Kumar (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Botox can be given in mild to moderate cases of spasticity too.

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for getting back.

I agree with you that most patients who receive botox injections have severe spasticity. However, botox is useful in mild to moderate cases of spasticity too.

Botox injections can be given by either neurologist or a rehabilitation specialist (physiatrist).

Best wishes,

Dr Sudhir Kumar MD DM (Neurology)

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad