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[Evaluation of pendulum testing of spasticity]
P Le Cavorzin1, X Hernot, O Bartier
1Centre de réeducation fonctionnelle de Rennes-Beaulieu, 41, avenue des Buttes de Coesmes, France. philippe.lecavorzin@free.fr
Summary
The pendulum test effectively measures leg spasticity. For accurate assessment, especially in therapeutic evaluations, the area under the curve is a more valid measure than the Relaxation Index.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Biomechanics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Context:
- Spasticity, a common symptom of neurological disorders, significantly impacts motor function.
- The pendulum test is a widely used clinical tool for assessing spasticity in the leg.
- Existing measures derived from the pendulum test may have limitations in accurately quantifying spasticity.
Purpose:
- To identify and validate reliable measurements of leg spasticity using the pendulum test.
- To compare the efficacy of different pendulum test-derived measures, including the Relaxation Index and area under the curve.
- To correlate pendulum test parameters with clinical spasticity assessments like the Ashworth scale.
Summary:
- Mathematical modeling of pendulum tests in spastic patients revealed significantly higher viscosity in affected muscles.
- Reflex-mediated torque was greater in spastic individuals, with a non-linear correlation to the Ashworth scale.
- The area under the goniometric curve demonstrated a linear relationship with reflex-mediated torque, indicating superior validity over the Relaxation Index.
Impact:
- Suggests replacing the commonly used Relaxation Index with the area under the curve for more accurate spasticity assessment.
- Highlights the limitations of the Ashworth scale due to its non-linear behavior.
- Provides a more reliable method for evaluating the effectiveness of spasticity treatments.