A physical therapist will assess range of motion, strength, functional mobility, gait, spasm severity, and equipment needed. The physican or nurse practitioner addresses each client’s medical history and medications. Based on the physical therapy assessment and recommendations and the medical information, the team is able to provide each client with an optimal treatment program. The team also makes use of digital camera recorded videos and photos for gait and mobility analysis to assist in tracking the individual’s progress as a result of the treatment.

We provide services for a variety of injuries or conditions, that often result in problems with spasticity. Some of these include:

• Spinal cord injury
• Adults with cerebral palsy
• Brain injury
• Multiple sclerosis
• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
• Stroke

Treatment options that are available or could be recommended include:

• Traditional physical and/or occupational therapy includes muscle stretching, positioning, and exercise to address physical impairments and functional deficits due to complications from spasticity.
• Anti-spasmodic drugs taken by mouth are medications sometimes prescribed alone or in conjunction with other treatments to reduce spasticity.
• Botulinum toxin-A therapy involves the injection of Botulinum toxin-A directly into spastic muscle tissue. When used together with splinting and orthotic management to enhance the stretching effect, Botulinum toxin-A acts as an inhibitor of muscle spasms.
• Intrathecal Baclofen therapy is one of the most effective methods of controlling spasticity. It involves the surgical placement of a small pump that delivers medication directly to the spinal fluid via catheter to decrease muscle spasticity.
• Orthopedic surgery is an option for some candidates to correct deformities resulting from spasticity or to augment the effects of other antispasticity treatments.
• Durable medical or orthotic equipment is recommended as part of an interdisciplinary evaluation when needed to reduce the effects of spasticity or enhance function.

Staff and Facilities

NRH Regional Rehab is staffed by a team of experienced therapists. Patients benefit from the wealth of expertise available at NRH, the Washington area’s only freestanding, comprehensive medical rehabilitation hospital.

Financial Arrangements

NRH Regional Rehab participates in Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Medicare and is approved by most major insurance carriers and health maintenance organizations. A case manager or office manager will discuss your insurance with you at the time of the referral.

Information and Referral

To learn more about our services, arrange a tour, or make a referral, please call NRH Regional Rehab at Irving Street at 202.877.1620.