An approach for spasticity quantification based on the stretch reflex threshold

摘要

Spasticity is a common and complex motor disorderthat affects more than 12 million persons in the world. There areseveral studies on spasticity quantification in the literature butthere is still a need for measurement improvements. This paperpresents the design of a mechatronic device for spasticityquantification, in joint of ankle, elbow and knees. This approachis based on the velocity dependent of the tonic stretch reflexes.The relevant variables, the measurement range and theadequate measurement systems are selected. The dataacquisition system, board and software, are also defined. Thedesigned system for quantifying spasticity was tested andvalidated in laboratory environment. Next step consists ofsystem validation in clinical environment.