Article

The first aim of this study was to systematically review and critically
assess manually controlled instrumented spasticity assessment methods that
combine multidimensional signals. The second aim was to extract a set of
quantified parameters that are psychometrically sound to assess spasticity in a
clinical setting. METHOD: Electronic databases were searched to identify studies
that assessed spasticity by simultaneously collecting electrophysiological and
biomechanical signals during manually controlled passive muscle stretches. Two
independent reviewers critically assessed the methodological quality of the
psychometric properties of the included studies using the COSMIN guidelines.
RESULTS: Fifteen studies with instrumented spasticity assessments met all
inclusion criteria. Parameters that integrated electrophysiological signals with
joint movement characteristics were best able to quantify spasticity. There were
conflicting results regarding biomechanical-based parameters that quantify the
resistance to passive stretch. Few methods have been assessed for all
psychometric properties. In particular, further information on absolute
reliability and responsiveness for more muscles is needed. INTERPRETATION:
Further research is required to determine the correct parameters for quantifying
spasticity based on integration of signals, which especially focuses on
distinguishing the neural from non-neural contributions to increased joint
torque. These parameters should undergo more rigorous exploration to establish
their psychometric properties for use in a clinical environment.
CI - (c) 2014 Mac Keith Press.

Langue : ANGLAIS