[Treatment of the spastic drop foot with botulinum toxin type A in adult patients]

Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2001:113 Suppl 4:25-9.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Spastic drop foot can be managed by physical measures, local pharmacological agents, oral anti-spastic drugs and surgical procedures. Recent studies have documented the clear effect of botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) in the treatment of the spastic drop foot, particularly by reducing the resistance against passive movement and increasing the range of motion. Functional benefit and pain reduction have also been observed. The use of BTX-A is safe and free of serious side effects. Individual realistic treatment goals must be defined by the rehabilitation team before the treatment. Possible purposes of the treatment are the achievement of a straight foot to allow weight bearing or application of an orthosis and to reduce the premature activation of the calf muscles during gait. Other treatment goals are the facilitation of nursing care, as well as physical and occupational therapy. BTX-A injections can reduce pain, and prevent pressure ulcers or surgical interventions. Early physiotherapy or occupational therapy may increase the treatment effect of BTX-A. Close cooperation between the neurologist, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, nursing staff and other multidisciplinary rehabilitation team members is essential to maximize the benefit for the patients.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / administration & dosage
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / adverse effects
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / therapeutic use*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Electromyography
  • Foot / physiopathology
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / drug therapy*
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / etiology
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / physiopathology
  • Gait Disorders, Neurologic / therapy
  • Humans
  • Muscle Spasticity / drug therapy*
  • Muscle Spasticity / etiology
  • Muscle Spasticity / physiopathology
  • Muscle Spasticity / rehabilitation
  • Neuromuscular Agents / administration & dosage
  • Neuromuscular Agents / adverse effects
  • Neuromuscular Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Pain / prevention & control
  • Patient Care Team
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Placebos
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Range of Motion, Articular
  • Safety
  • Stroke / complications
  • Stroke / physiopathology
  • Toes / physiopathology

Substances

  • Neuromuscular Agents
  • Placebos
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A