Terminology

Question 1

Active Insufficiency

Answer 1

Inability of a two joint muscle to generate force because the muscle has become too short or too long. AKA weakness

Question 2

Passive Insufficiency

Answer 2

Inability of a two joint muscle to lengthen far enough to allow for full ROM into the direction. AKA TIGHTNESS…e.g. Ely’s Test

Question 3

Lead-Pipe Rigidity

Answer 3

Hypertonic state with rigidity throughout all ROM, independent of velocity. Seen in Parkinson’s Disease.

Question 4

Cogwheel Rigidity

Answer 4

Superimposed ratchet-like jerkiness and is commonly

seen in upper extremity movements in Parkinson’s Disease.

Question 5

Decerebrate Rigidity

Answer 5

Abnormal Extensor Response of trunk and limbs in full extension. The elbows are extended with shoulders adducted, forearms pronated, and wrist and fingers flexed. The legs are held in stiff extension with plantarflexion.

decerebrate rigidity indicates a corticospinal lesion in the

brainstem between the superior colliculus and vestibular

nucleus

Question 6

Decorticate Rigidity

Answer 6

sustained contraction and posturing of the upper limbs

in flexion and the lower limbs in extension. The elbows,

wrists, and fingers are held in flexion with shoulders

adducted tightly to the sides while the legs are held in

extension, internal rotation, and plantarflexion

Decorticate rigidity is

indicative of a corticospinal tract lesion at the level of

diencephalon (above the superior colliculus)