On the Tardieu scale, what describes grade 3?

On the Tardieu scale, what describes grade 3?

• A. Limb rigid; cannot be moved.
• B. Slight resistance at fast velocity.
• C. Strong catch at specific angle, difficult to overcome.
• D. No resistance to passive movement.

Answer: (C)

Spasticity on the Tardieu scale is defined by a velocity-dependent increase in muscle tone, seen as a catch at a specific joint angle when the limb is moved quickly. Grade three describes a strong catch at a precise angle that is difficult to overcome, indicating a pronounced, abrupt resistance that follows the catch but is not the same as continuous rigidity across the entire range. In other words, you feel a distinct, powerful resistance at a particular angle during fast movement. The other descriptions fit milder or different patterns: no resistance means no spasticity; slight resistance at fast velocity points to a lower grade; and limb rigidity that makes movement impossible reflects a different, more global rigidity rather than the focal catch pattern of grade three.

Spasticity on the Tardieu scale is defined by a velocity-dependent increase in muscle tone, seen as a catch at a specific joint angle when the limb is moved quickly. Grade three describes a strong catch at a precise angle that is difficult to overcome, indicating a pronounced, abrupt resistance that follows the catch but is not the same as continuous rigidity across the entire range. In other words, you feel a distinct, powerful resistance at a particular angle during fast movement. The other descriptions fit milder or different patterns: no resistance means no spasticity; slight resistance at fast velocity points to a lower grade; and limb rigidity that makes movement impossible reflects a different, more global rigidity rather than the focal catch pattern of grade three.