See if you’ve developed Post-Stroke Spasticity

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you may be suffering

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What is Post-Stroke Spasticity?

If you have suffered a stroke and have had muscle cramps/spasms or stiffness in your arms and legs this is also known as spasticity.

Why does it occur?

Sometimes a stroke can damage a part of the brain that controls certain muscles in the body. The muscles become tight and stiff and resist being stretched.

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Learn more about spasticity This assessment is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Did you know?

In Canada approximately what percentage of stroke sufferers develop spasticity?

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Approximately 30% of stroke sufferers develop spasticity. It's important to speak with your doctor as spasticity worsens over time. One study showed that more than 1 in 4 (27%) stroke survivors had greater spasticity 6 weeks after having had a stroke.^1,7 Approximately 30% of stroke sufferers develop spasticity. It's important to speak with your doctor as spasticity worsens over time. One study showed that more than 1 in 4 (27%) stroke survivors had greater spasticity 6 weeks after having had a stroke.^1,7

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Affected muscles

If you suffer from spasticity, it usually affects your arms, fingers or legs.As a person with spasticity, you feel as though you have no control over the muscles that are affected.

Which muscle areas have been affected?

Select all that apply:

Arm(s)
Fingers
Leg(s)

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Muscle spasms

Do you suffer from painful muscle spasms?

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Other signs and symptoms

You may also suffer from spasticity if you have one of the following signs and symptoms.

Select all signs and symptoms that apply:

Muscle spasms, contractions and/or cramping(similar to cramps that can happen during exercise)
Increased muscle tone or resistance(the muscle is tight and tense even though it is not doing anything)
Stiffness in the arms, hands, legs or feet
Abnormal postures Uncontrolled bending or extension of the arms andlegs (NOT the same as showing poor posture)
Uncontrollable movement or jerking (called “clonus”)
Reflexes that are over-excited(e.g., twitching or shaking tendencies)

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Find a stroke rehabilitation specialist near you

Did you know? There are specially trained stroke rehabilitation physicians who know how to treat people dealing with the effects of stroke.

Enter your postal code to get a list of nearby specialists:

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Your results

Based on your answers you may have developed spasticity symptoms.

Seek help from a Stroke Rehabilitation Specialist

Spasticity can worsen over time. Spasticity can develop weeks, months, or even years after a stroke – so it’s important to be aware of what spasticity is, and to seek the help from a specialist if it occurs.

There are treatments available that can help

Your doctor can refer you to a stroke rehabilitation specialist who can discuss your treatment options.

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Find a stroke rehabilitation specialist near you

If you are a relative, spouse/partner or close friend providing care for a stroke survivor, your role is essential in their recovery.

Caregivers play an important role in helping their loved ones re-learn routine activities, regain abilities, motivate them, and assist them in doing things they cannot do or struggle to do for themselves. They also often accompany loved ones to medical appointments as an advocate.24

It’s not unusual to feel overwhelmed, fearful and uncertain about your role as a caregiver. Be sure to take time for yourself, and to reach out for support whenever you need it. Here are a few things that can help you take care your loved one – and yourself.

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Tips to care for a loved one^12,13:

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Tips to care for yourself:

To be a good caregiver, YOU also need to be cared for. This means taking time for yourself, doing things you enjoy, and leaning on friends and family for support.

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