What is spasticity?

Spasticity refers to a condition characterized by a continuous resistance to stretching in the muscles. This phenomenon is often a result of neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy or multiple sclerosis, where the central nervous system is affected, leading to excessive contraction of the muscles. This resistance can cause stiff and awkward movements, impacting a person's ability to control their limbs effectively.

In contrast, hyperactive behavior involves heightened levels of activity or impulsivity that are unrelated to muscle control. Damage to muscles caused by range-of-motion exercises speaks to the physical aspects of rehabilitation rather than the neurological causes of spasticity. Lastly, the ability to move limbs through their full range of motion, known as range of motion (ROM), indicates flexibility and ease of movement, which is the opposite of what spasticity entails. Thus, the characteristics of spasticity align specifically with the description of a muscle's continuous resistance to stretching.