Spasticity Flashcards
This occurs when
There is a loss of inhibition of alpha motor neurons firing
Patterns
Appears in particular patterns in upper + lower body. Can present with any combination of patterns ~flexor ~extensor
Upper body flexor pattern
-Flexion of head/ trunk toward affected side
-Depression of shoulder- retraction of Scapula
-Internal rotation + adduction of GH jt
-Flexion of elbow. Prone of forearm
-Flexion of wrist + fingers. With thumb adduction
Upper body extensor pattern
-Slight extenson of neck + head
-Trunk bent away from affected side
-Retraction of Scapula
-Internal rotation of GH jt
-Palm facing backwards
Lower body flexor patterns
-Abduction, Extensor rotation + flexion of hip
-Flexion of knee
-Dorsiflexion + inversion of ankle
-Flexion of toes
Lower body extension pattern
-Adduction, internal rotation + Extension of hip
-Plantar flexion + inversion of ankle
-Extension of knee
Extensor thrust pattern
Vigorously extended limbs while arching back
Positive supporting reaction
Stiffening of leg in extension or flexion
Grasp reflex
Withdrawal of the entire arm in tightly flexed position
How can spasticity be useful sometimes
Spasticity in legs can assist with standing/ transferring from wheelchair to a bed
Massage techniques for spasticity
-Variety of Swedish techs
-Slow rhythmical shaking of limbs
-GTO release
-PROM of affected jts- carefully, not to cause stretch reflex
Rigitity
Resistance to movement in flexion, extension + rotation
Lead pipe rigitity
Uniform resistance through ROM
Cog wheel regitity
Ratchet like movement of an affected limb.
Limb can be moved a short distance, but Is interrupted by a tremor. Mvmts stop + then can be resumed again
Encourage whole body integration
Important for clt to be aware of affected areas of their body
When one side weaker than other, therapist stands on weaker side so clt looks towards weaker side
