Stretch-reflex threshold modulation during active elbow movements in post-stroke survivors with spasticity

Spasticity is a common complication of stroke, occurring in ∼20-50% of patients in the first year (Wissel et al., 2013) and often associated with other sensory and motor impairments (e.g., muscle weakness, loss of dexterity). Spasticity is generally assessed by resistance or EMG responses to passive muscle stretches and has been attributed to exaggerated spinal stretch reflexes (SRs) and alterations in intrinsic muscle properties (Dietz and Sinkjaer, 2007). For example, motor units of spastic muscles often have an impaired ability to relax (Lewek et al., 2007), prolonged spontaneous firing (Mottram et al., 2010) and low firing rates (Young and Mayer, 1982; Gemperline et al., 1995).

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