Spasticity is defined as uncomfortable and painful muscle spasms and stiffness. It is associated with a range of movement disorders and diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and spinal cord injuries.103 Spasticity often increases in severity as the disorder progresses. It is believed that the increasing severity of spasticity symptoms over time may stem from a malfunction of the stretch reflex, resulting in excessive and cumulative muscle contractions.104 Cannabis is a common alternative treatment for spasticity, and predates our understanding of how the body’s endocannabinoid system regulates the neural signaling that goes awry in spasticity and its underlying disorders.
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS AND MOVEMENT DISORDERS
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