Pathophysiological Mechanisms of Spasticity at the Spinal Cord Level

摘要: For a clinician, the term “spasticity” may have broad meaning, sometimes synonymous with upper motor neuron syndrome. However, it is well known that disability resulting from lesion of descending pathways depends on distinct positive (hyper-reflexia, muscle hypertonia, spasms) and negative (paresis or palsy, loss dexterity) signs which evolve independently. experts only, spasticity just one these signs. It was defined by Lance in 1980 as follows: “Spasticity disorder characterized velocity-dependent increase tonic stretch reflexes (‘muscle tone’) exaggerated tendon jerks hyperexcitability reflex component motorneurone syndrome”. In 1980s, this definition enjoyed large popularity. has also been criticized foundation clinical sign described physiological terms. Moreover, attributes only to reflex. While there little doubt brisk depend factor, mechanisms are less clear still debated.