Spasticity can be described as an involuntary increase in what?

Spasticity is characterized by an involuntary increase in muscle tone, which refers to the tension in muscles when they are at rest. This condition often results from damage to the nervous system, particularly the pathways that regulate muscle control, leading to an exaggerated response to stimuli and resistance to passive movement. In individuals with spasticity, the affected muscles may become stiff and less flexible, making it difficult to move them smoothly.

An increase in muscle tone implies the muscles are more tense than normal, and this can interfere with movement, coordination, and overall function. Therefore, recognizing spasticity as an increase in muscle tone is essential for understanding its impact on muscular control and rehabilitation strategies in brain injury patients.