Spasticity, muscle spasms, and nocturnal spasms are recognised manifestations in people with Friedreich ataxia that warrant targeted clinical assessment and structured management.
People with Friedreich ataxia benefit from assessment for spasticity, pain, and spasms — including nocturnal spasms — and for incipient or established contracture. This protocol addresses generalized spasticity and spasms as the primary clinical scenario.
The recommended approach involves systemic pharmacotherapy directed at reducing the severity of spasticity and the frequency of spasms. The specific agents, selection criteria, sequencing, and full clinical algorithm are contained in the structured protocol.
DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02568-3
People with Friedreich ataxia benefit from assessment for spasticity, pain and spasms (including nocturnal spasms) and incipient or established contracture.
We conditionally recommend offering systemic pharmacotherapy (baclofen, tizanidine, gabapentin, dantrolene sodium, benzodiazepines, other) for the management of generalized spasticity and spasms in individuals with Friedreich ataxia, with a view to reducing the severity of spasticity and the frequency of spasms and cramps, which may improve mobility and upper limb function and reduce pain.
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