Spasticity and Ultrasound Imaging: A Retrospective Study

This study aims to quantify differences between spastic and unaffected limbs in patients with chronic stroke by using diagnostic US to measure spastic muscle characteristics of medial gastrocnemius/soleus and rectus femoris including muscle thickness, fascicle length, and pennate angle. This study will also correlate LE spastic muscle architecture findings with Modified Ashworth Scale for spasticity level. Stretching will be performed for quadriceps, gastrocnemius, or soleus musculature according to Kisner and Colby’s Foundations and Techniques. Based on understanding of current impairments and treatments related to stroke and spasticity, study results will be to used to guide further research to determine effective PT intervention selection and management.