Spacticity Essay

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Spasticity and Tone Management Self Study Assignment: turn in completed assignment - worth 25 points Objectives: At the conclusion of this self study the student will: 1. Define spasticity and describe the causes of spasticity. 2. Name four common diagnosis that spasticity is usually seen in. 3. Differentiate between tone and strength. 4. Describe oral medications used to reduce spasticity, if they work centrally or peripherally, and adverse effects. 5. Describe the use of Botox and Intrathecal Baclofen for spasticity, noting indications and contra-indications, and adverse effects. 6. Describe the use of positioning and modalities to reduce spasticity, listing three modalities. 7. Describe the use of casting and orthotics to reduce spasticity, naming two body sites where they are used, and any adverse effects. 8. Describe the upper extremity and lower extremity flexion and extension synergy patterns. References: Handouts, Physical Rehabilitation by O’Sullivan; p. 44-45 in Functional Neurorehabilitation Through the Life Span, Improving Functional Outcomes in Physical Rehabilitation, and any other sources on spasticity and tone management. Complete this assignment by answering the follow questions! 1. Define spasticity: Spasticity is a state of hypertonicity of the muscle. The word spasticity, derived from the Greek word spastikos, means “to tug” or “to draw”. It is defined as a motor disorder characterized by a velocity-dependent increase in the stretch reflex with exaggerated tendon jerks, resulting from hyperexcitability. 2. What causes spasticity: The predominant hypothesis regarding the neural mechanism underlying spasticity is that it is due to changes in descending motor control activity, causing increased alpha motor neuron excitability, which

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