October 13, 2026
Severe spasticity—a condition characterized by stiff, involuntary muscle tightness, spasms, and painful contractures—can severely restrict physical mobility, sleep, and self-care. Spasticity typically occurs when damage to the brain or spinal cord disrupts normal central nervous system signals, preventing muscles from relaxing properly.
When oral anti-spasmodic medications like baclofen fail to control spasms or cause severe drowsiness and fatigue, Intrathecal Baclofen (ITB) Therapy via an implantable pump offers a highly effective alternative.
Baclofen is a muscle relaxant medication that acts directly on GABA-B receptors within the spinal cord to inhibit hyperactive muscle reflexes.
When taken orally, baclofen must travel through the bloodstream and cross the blood-brain barrier. High oral doses are often required to reach the spinal cord, leading to systemic side effects like profound fatigue, confusion, and nausea.
An intrathecal baclofen pump bypasses the systemic circulation:
ITB therapy is recommended for adults and children living with severe, intractable spasticity resulting from:
Before permanent implantation, candidates undergo a brief screening trial, where a small test dose of baclofen is administered into the spinal fluid via a single lumbar puncture.
If the trial demonstrates significant temporary reduction in muscle tone and spasms without adverse effects, the surgical team can move forward with permanent pump placement. The pump can be wirelessly adjusted in the office to match changing physical needs over time.