Symptoms of Spasticity | Neurological Surgery

Symptoms of spasticity can range from mild to severe, and milder symptoms may be easily confused with other conditions. An accurate diagnosis is very important and should be made by experts in neuromuscular disorders (see Diagnosing and Treating Spasticity). Symptoms may include:

Muscle stiffness
Awkwardness in walking (a jerky, stiff, or unnatural gait)
Inability to bend limbs (due to overactive tendon reflexes)
Uncontrollable muscle spasms, sometimes painful
Unusual angles to elbows, knees, and other joints
Scissoring (crossing) of the arms or legs
Repetitive jerky movements (called “clonus”)
Abnormal posture

Over time, untreated spasticity can lead to permanent contracting of muscles, which may lock joints into a single position. Symptoms of spasticity should be evaluated by neuromuscular experts at major medical centers. For children, find out more about the Neuromotor Disorders Program at Weill Cornell Medicine Pediatric Neurosurgery, or request an appointment by using our online form or calling 212-746-2363. For more information about spasticity in adults, see our Movement Disorders section.

Request an Appointment | Refer a Patient