In MAS interpretation, what does a higher score indicate?

In MAS interpretation, what does a higher score indicate?

• A. Lower spasticity.
• B. Greater spasticity.
• C. Improved reflex symmetry.
• D. Decreased muscle tone variability.

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that the Modified Ashworth Scale gauges how resistant a muscle is to being stretched passively. A higher score means more resistance, which corresponds to greater spasticity. The scale ranges from 0 (no increase in tone) to 4 (severe increase with rigidity), so larger numbers reflect more spasticity. It doesn’t measure reflex symmetry or variability, and it’s not about lowering tone—the score specifically indicates how stiff the muscle feels during passive movement, i.e., the level of spasticity.

The main idea is that the Modified Ashworth Scale gauges how resistant a muscle is to being stretched passively. A higher score means more resistance, which corresponds to greater spasticity. The scale ranges from 0 (no increase in tone) to 4 (severe increase with rigidity), so larger numbers reflect more spasticity. It doesn’t measure reflex symmetry or variability, and it’s not about lowering tone—the score specifically indicates how stiff the muscle feels during passive movement, i.e., the level of spasticity.