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Alterations in Muscle Tone ll

Alterations in Muscle Tone ll

Alterations in muscle tone are common manifestations of neurological disorders and reflect dysfunction within different nervous system regions. Spasticity, paratonia, and dystonia represent distinct forms of hypertonia, each with unique mechanisms, clinical features, and diagnostic importance.CharacteristicsSpasticity happens from upper motor neuron lesions and is characterized by velocity-dependent resistance to passive movement. Clinical features include:Exaggerated deep tendon reflexesClonus...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 24, 2026

Isokinetic Robotic Device to Improve Test-Retest and Inter-Rater Reliability for Stretch Reflex Measurements in Stroke Patients with Spasticity

Isokinetic Robotic Device to Improve Test-Retest and Inter-Rater Reliability for Stretch Reflex Measurements in Stroke Patients with Spasticity

Published on: June 12, 2019

Understanding spasticity from patients' perspectives over time.

Rozina H Bhimani¹, Cynthia Peden McAlpine, Susan J Henly

¹Department of Nursing, St Catherine University, Saint Paul, MN, USA. rhbhimani@stkate.edu

Journal of Advanced Nursing

|February 21, 2012

Summary

Patients describe spasticity using terms related to muscle tone and spasms. Their experiences are complex, involving unusual sensations sensitive to daily stressors, highlighting the need for patient reports in clinical evaluations.

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Published on: April 18, 2011

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Last Updated: May 24, 2026

Isokinetic Robotic Device to Improve Test-Retest and Inter-Rater Reliability for Stretch Reflex Measurements in Stroke Patients with Spasticity

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Methods to Quantify Pharmacologically Induced Alterations in Motor Function in Human Incomplete SCI

Methods to Quantify Pharmacologically Induced Alterations in Motor Function in Human Incomplete SCI

Published on: April 18, 2011

Area of Science:

Neurology
Qualitative Research
Patient Experience

Background:

Spasticity is a poorly understood and often unpleasant symptom associated with upper motor neuron diseases.
Understanding patient perceptions of spasticity is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

To explore and report patients' understanding and perceptions of their spasticity experiences over time.
To identify themes and language used by patients to describe spasticity.

Main Methods:

A qualitative study utilizing semi-structured interviews with 23 patients undergoing acute rehabilitation.
Content analysis was employed to interpret patient responses regarding their spasticity experiences.

Main Results:

Patients described spasticity using terms related to muscle tone and spasms.
Key themes identified included Ambiguous Experiences, Navigating Symptom Experience, Wounded Self, and Unending Journey.
Spasticity experiences are complex, sensitive to everyday stressors, and involve a range of unusual sensations.

Conclusions:

Patient-reported experiences of spasticity are complex and multifaceted.
Clinical evaluations of spasticity should incorporate patient narratives and subjective reports.
Understanding patient-specific language enhances communication between patients and healthcare providers, improving care for spasticity.