Spasticity and Upper Motor Neuron Dysfunction

Arthur Sherwood

Arthur Sherwood

National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, Washington, DC

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W. Barry McKay

W. Barry McKay

Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas

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First published: 14 April 2006
Citations: 2

Abstract

This chapter presents an overview of the set of symptoms generally classified as spasticity. Definitions of spasticity are reviewed, and this chapter suggests the use of a recently presented definition, “disordered sensori-motor control, resulting from an upper motor neurone lesion, presenting as intermittent or sustained involuntary activation of muscles.” Following a brief discussion of mechanisms, assessment of spasticity is organized by consideration of the domains of the international classification of functioning, disability, and health (ICF) and clinical and laboratory scales reviewed.

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