Tone and Coordination

Question 1

what is tone? Include the two essential definition points

Answer 1

• inherent amount of resistance to passive lengthening

- readiness of muscles for action

Question 2

why is tone important for postural stability?

Answer 2

• muscles need the right amount of tension already in them to contract on command
• a certain amount of tone is needed to hold up the neck, trunk, and shoulder girdle while maintaining proper posture.

Question 3

hypotonia is associated with lower or upper motor neuron conditions? what two other conditions is it associated with?

Answer 3

• lower motor neuron conditions (like ALS)
• early stage CVA
• cerebellar lesions

Question 4

hypertonia is associated with lower or upper motor neuron conditions? Name the two types of hypertonia

Answer 4

• upper motor neuron conditions like CP, MS, Parkinsons, TBI, Stroke as well.
• spasticity or rigidity.

Question 5

which type of hypertonia is velocity dependent? what is it’s pattern of muscle involvement?

Answer 5

spasticity - pyramidal pattern (UE flexors and LE extensors)

Question 6

what does a 2 on the ashworth scale mean?

Answer 6

increase in resistance through most of ROM but still easy to move

Question 7

what are the names of the two upper motor neuron reflex tests?

Answer 7

babinski (foot)

Hoffmans (finger)

Question 8

what does triceps reflex test? what about patellar? brachioradialis?

Answer 8

c7
L4
C6

Question 9

If someone has clonus or hyperactive reflexes, what number would you give them on the NINDS scale?

Answer 9

4

Question 10

what kind of reflex pattern might you expect in someone with a cerebellar lesion?

Answer 10

pendular

Question 11

compare techniques for increasing and decreasing tone for individuals (stretching, icing, vibration frequency, position of limb, e-stim)

Answer 11

Incr - Decr
quick stretch - long gentle stretch
quick ice - long ice
high freq vibration - low freq vibration
approximate joints - traction joints
e-stim on muscle - on antagonist or use TENS

Question 12

a lack of coordination is called _____ usually associated with ____

Answer 12

ataxia, cerebellar lesions

Question 13

what three outcomes are evaluated with coordination assessments?

Answer 13

movement speed, accuracy, and fluidity

Question 14

what two types of tests can one use for assessing coordination?

Answer 14

RAM or point to point

Question 15

name three types of involuntary movements

Answer 15

tremors, dystonia, chorea