Article

The term "spasticity" describes the velocity-dependent increase in tonic stretch
reflexes. The symptom is commonly seen in patients with injury to the central
nervous system. It is rarely isolated but, instead, part of a set of symptoms
that is sometimes confusing. However, the pathophysiology of the symptom has
evolved over the past three decades, and it is now considered part of a global
process that includes not only spinal reflex loop modifications, but also changes
in the biomechanical properties of muscle fibers.
Finally, recent studies of
changes in the membrane properties of motor neurons and the occurrence of plateau
potential have opened new perspectives. This review aims to describe these new
pathophysiological models.
CI - Copyright (c) 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Langue : FRANCAIS