Early brain imaging predictors of post-stroke spasticity.

Background: Post-stroke spasticity is a major factor disturbing rehabilitation and functional recovery in stroke survivors. Clinical predictors of post-stroke spasticity have often been discussed, but brain image predictors for spasticity have been insufficiently researched. The aim of this study was to use magnetic resonance imaging data to identify early brain imaging predictors for potential development of spasticity after stroke.

Early clinical predictors of post stroke spasticity.

: Up to 40% of stroke patients with paresis develop post-stroke spasticity (PSS), which induces difficult complications including pain, contracture, posture disorder. The most important factor for PSS management is its early initiation, so that early recognition of PSS is required in clinical practice.: This prospective observational cohort study was conducted with a high standard of PSS assessment and a comprehensive protocol investigating possible predictive factors to identify early predictors of PSS already in the acute phase following stroke (<7 days).