Spasticity and spasms — including spasms that occur at night — are recognised features of Friedreich ataxia that require structured assessment and targeted management to protect mobility, function, and quality of life.

People with Friedreich ataxia benefit from systematic assessment for spasticity, pain, and spasms (including nocturnal spasms), as well as for incipient or established contracture. When these features are present and affecting daily function, a structured management approach is indicated.

Management Approach

When conservative options — such as physiotherapy — are no longer sufficient, a local pharmacological intervention may be appropriate for carefully selected patients. Full eligibility criteria, the complete assessment framework, and the structured regimen are available in the protocol.

References

People with Friedreich ataxia benefit from assessment for spasticity, pain and spasms (including nocturnal spasms) and incipient or established contracture.

We suggest local pharmacological (i.e. injection of botulinum toxin) management of spasticity for individuals with Friedreich ataxia over no local spasticity management in the following circumstances: a thorough assessment is conducted to weigh up the negative and positive effects of this intervention; spasticity is significantly affecting mobility, function, pain or positioning, and conservative treatment options (such as physiotherapy) are no longer effective.

DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02568-3

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Treatment of Friedreich Ataxia with Spasticity and Spasms (Including Nocturnal Spasms)

Management Approach

References