Introduction
- 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.
Purpose and Clinical Application
- To assess the degree of spasticity (hypertonia) in limbs.
- Guides clinical decision-making, including therapeutic interventions such as physiotherapy, botulinum toxin injections, baclofen therapy, and surgical interventions.
- Helps monitor progression or response to treatments over time.
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