16-158

Detrimental effects of spasticity include the following:

  • Impaired standing resulting from the effects of clonus, hip adductor scissoring and flexor spasms.
  • Extensor spasms and clonus may impair gait. • Velocity-dependent hypertonus may slow voluntary movements.
  • Flexor and extensor spasms may produce skin shear and impair positioning. 
  • Tonic hyperreflexia or flexor spasms can increase the risk of contractures and joint subluxation.
  • Spasms may impair sleep or produce pain.
  • Hip flexor and adductor spasms may impair perineal hygiene. 

Little JW, Massagli TL. Spasticity and associated abnormalities of muscle tone. In: DeLisa JA, Gans BM, (eds). Rehabilitation Medicine, 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA. Lippincott-Raven, 1998.

Join Our Newsletter