PM & R : the journal of injury, function, and rehabilitation
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This article will discuss many of the key concepts regarding chemodenervation and neurolysis in the management of spasticity. Topics that will be discussed include techniques for localization, strengths and limitations of various agents (botulinum toxin, phenol, and alcohol), the value of combination therapies, and the role of nerve blocks (diagnostic and therapeutic). ⋯ During the last 2 decades, the addition of botulinum toxin chemodenervation as an adjunct to traditional neurolysis, medication, and therapy modalities has expanded the field of treatment of intramuscular hyperactivity in upper motor neuron syndrome. The technique of diagnostic blocks as predictors of response and the therapeutic value of nerve blocks will be discussed.