Light compression, applied as normal body weight along the long axis of the bone, is thought to do what to muscle spasticity?

Light compression, applied as normal body weight along the long axis of the bone, is thought to do what to muscle spasticity?

• A. Increase range of motion
• B. Decrease muscle tone
• C. Inhibit (relax) muscle spasticity
• D. Facilitate co-contraction at the joint

Answer: (C)

Light compression from body weight provides steady proprioceptive input to the nervous system, which can calm hyperactive reflexes. This input activates receptors around the joints and skin, sending signals to the spinal cord that engage inhibitory pathways to the spastic muscles. The result is reduced alpha motor neuron excitability in those muscles, meaning the spasticity is inhibited (relaxed). As a consequence, movement becomes easier and ROM can improve. This effect focuses on dampening spastic reflex activity rather than increasing contraction or forcing co-contraction.

Light compression from body weight provides steady proprioceptive input to the nervous system, which can calm hyperactive reflexes. This input activates receptors around the joints and skin, sending signals to the spinal cord that engage inhibitory pathways to the spastic muscles. The result is reduced alpha motor neuron excitability in those muscles, meaning the spasticity is inhibited (relaxed). As a consequence, movement becomes easier and ROM can improve. This effect focuses on dampening spastic reflex activity rather than increasing contraction or forcing co-contraction.