On the Tardieu scale, what characterizes grade 0?

On the Tardieu scale, what characterizes grade 0?

• A. Limb rigid; cannot be moved.
• B. No resistance to passive movement; limb moved at specified velocities; normal tone.
• C. Slight resistance at fast velocity.
• D. Clear catch at a specific angle.

Answer: (B)

The Tardieu scale measures how muscles respond to passive movement at different speeds to distinguish velocity-dependent spasticity from normal tone. Grade 0 means there is no resistance to passive movement at any tested velocity; the limb moves smoothly and the tone is normal. This is why the description of no resistance with movement at specified velocities and normal tone best fits. Descriptions of rigidity, any resistance that appears at fast stretch, or a sudden catch at a specific angle indicate higher grades of spasticity.

The Tardieu scale measures how muscles respond to passive movement at different speeds to distinguish velocity-dependent spasticity from normal tone. Grade 0 means there is no resistance to passive movement at any tested velocity; the limb moves smoothly and the tone is normal. This is why the description of no resistance with movement at specified velocities and normal tone best fits. Descriptions of rigidity, any resistance that appears at fast stretch, or a sudden catch at a specific angle indicate higher grades of spasticity.