The Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) is an important clinical tool used to measure muscle tone, specifically spasticity, in paediatric patients.
Spasticity is defined as velocity-dependent resistance to passive movement, commonly seen in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and other neurological conditions.
Originally developed from the Ashworth Scale, the Modified Ashworth Scale is widely used due to its simplicity, ease of administration, and reliability.
Historical Context
Initially developed by Bryan Ashworth in 1964.
Modified in 1987 by Bohannon and Smith to improve sensitivity and clinical usability, especially for paediatric populations.
