What is the difference between spasticity and hypertonicity

In this short excerpt, Dr. Steve McGee talks about the approach to differentiating spasticity versus rigidity at the bedside. When ever there is resistance to movement, think of the two most common issues: spasticity and rigidity. Both spasticity and rigidity represent hypertonic states, however both have different causes and characteristics that are important to be aware of.

Of note a third cause of hypertonia is paratonia seen in anxious or demented patients and sometimes the hypertonia is decreased with the patient is distracted during movement. Can you differentiate between spasticity versus rigidity? We teach bedside medicine. We emphasize the importance of the physical exam and how it can help care for your patient and also create an environment where the person you are caring for develops trust.

We have taught this now for over 6 years when the Stanford Medicine 25 was first created. A 78 year old man with no significant past medical history presents to his primary care physician with 4 days of right shoulder pain.

The pain is located over the acromioclavicular joint. The pain is worse at night with lying down and associated with shortness of breath.

He states that the pain is better during the day. He is an avid ping pong player and does not have pain or shortness of breath with playing ping pong The 25 The 25 Visit the Abraham Verghese Interviews Dr. View Full Definition. View Full Treatment Information. View Full Prognosis.

Throughout the U. Related Information. Cerebral Palsy Foundation. Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation.

Dystonia Medical Research Foundation. See all related organizations. Clinical Trials. Patient Organizations. New York, NY Tel: Short Hills. Short Hills, NJ Tel: ; One East Wacker Drive. Hypotonia is when there is low muscle tone, leaving muscles too relaxed. This can occur in brain injuries, such as HIE.

Children with cerebral palsy may have mixed tone, and a combination of different types of hypertonia, such as spasticity and dystonia. Connect with families, read inspiring stories, and get helpful resources delivered right to your inbox. Even if a statement made about medicine is accurate, it may not apply to you or your child.

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