DOI: 10.5176/2251-1865_CBP14.26
Authors: Sawako Arai, Yuko Fukase, Akira Okii, Yoshimi Suzukamo, and Toshimitsu Suga
Abstract:
In 2010, botulinum toxin (BT) injections made the reduction of spasticity medically possible in Japan. However, although the treatment objectively reduces spasticity, some patients do not perceive the effects of the BT injection. Thus, psychological factors may be interfering with the results. Herein, we examined a case of chronic spasticity wherein the effects of a BT injection were subjectively perceived, and we discuss the patient's experiences prior to the treatment. An interview survey was administered one week before the treatment, and a modified grounded theory approach (M-GTA) was employed for the analysis. Prior to the treatment, the patient perceived a good fit between her symptoms and the effects of a BT injection after being given information on the treatment. Thus, with the new information the patient set her own treatment goals, and accordingly made preparations to achieve these goals. We argue that the awareness that BT could improve one's medical condition is necessary for patients to perceive positive changes or progress in their conditions
Keywords: chronic spasticity; botulinum toxin injection; M-GTA
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