Muscle tone can range between which two extremes?

Muscle tone refers to the continuous and passive partial contraction of the muscles, which is important for maintaining posture and readiness for movement. When discussing muscle tone, it is commonly described in terms of two extremes: flaccidity and spasticity.

Flaccidity indicates a reduced muscle tone where the muscle feels soft and limp, leading to decreased resistance to passive movement and potentially resulting in weakness and the inability to perform common activities. On the other hand, spasticity represents an increased muscle tone characterized by an abnormal increase in muscle tone, often leading to stiffness, spasms, and resistance to movement. This could interfere with functional tasks and activities of daily living.

Understanding this continuum from flaccidity to spasticity is essential in occupational therapy, as it helps practitioners assess and develop appropriate intervention strategies for clients with differing muscle tone presentations. Recognizing the extremes allows for better guidance in rehabilitation efforts and tailored approaches to address the specific needs of individuals depending on their muscle tone characteristics.