The Neuro-Orthopaedic Approach.

Upper motor neuron disease or injury can lead to muscle spasticity or nonfunction throughout the body. Imbalance in muscle forces predisposes patients to development of functional deficiencies, contractures, pain, and poor hygiene. The approach to neuro-orthopaedic patients is by necessity multidisciplinary, because a variety of nonsurgical and surgical options are available. In evaluating each patient, surgeons must consider the extent and quality of any deformity, potential for improvement in function, the ability to alleviate pain, and potential for improvement in hygiene and cosmesis. Surgical techniques include tendon lengthenings, releases, transfers, osteotomies, and bony fusions.