tone
In clinical rehabilitation, the resting tension or resistance to passive movement in a muscle; a measure used to characterise both hypertonia and hypotonia.
Full Definition
Muscle tone in the rehabilitation context refers to the continuous, passive, partial contraction of muscle and the resistance encountered when a clinician moves a patient's limb passively. Abnormal tone is categorised as hypertonia (increased, as in spasticity or rigidity) or hypotonia (decreased, as in flaccidity). Editors must understand that 'tone' in this setting is always a clinical descriptor, not a reference to colour or sound. It is commonly assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) or Modified Tardieu Scale. The term is often used adjectivally in combinations such as 'low tone', 'high tone', or 'increased tone'; these forms are acceptable in clinical notes but should be expanded to full descriptive language in formal reports.
Usage
Usage note: In formal documents, specify the type of tone abnormality (e.g., 'hypertonia', 'spasticity') rather than relying on informal phrases like 'high tone'. Distinguish 'tone' from 'strength', which reflects active force generation.
In Context
- "The physiotherapist documented increased tone in the right upper limb, rated 2 on the Modified Ashworth Scale." — Inpatient physiotherapy note
- "Low tone in the trunk musculature compromised the patient's sitting balance." — Occupational therapy assessment report