Poststroke Spasticity, Seen Too Late - Takeaways - MDSpire

Poststroke Spasticity, Seen Too Late

New guidance from the American Heart Association addresses delayed recognition of poststroke spasticity and outlines opportunities to improve timing of rehabilitation care.

  • By

  • Kathryn Wighton

  • February 9, 2026

  • 4 min

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  • 1

    Poststroke spasticity affects 30% to 80% of stroke survivors, translating to 1.8 to 5.6 million people in the US.

  • 2

    Many patients do not receive treatment for spasticity until complications are established, despite effective interventions being available.

  • 3

    Early identification and management within the first 3 months post-stroke are crucial for reducing disability and healthcare costs.

  • 4

    Evidence supports early botulinum toxin use, which significantly reduces involuntary muscle activation and improves functional outcomes.

  • 5

    Improving clinician education and access to specialized care can help close gaps in recognition and treatment of poststroke spasticity.

Original Source(s)

Poststroke Spasticity, Seen Too Late

  • by Kathryn Wighton

  • February 9, 2026

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