Modified Ashworth Scale
A clinical assessment tool measuring muscle tone and spasticity severity in neurological conditions.
Full Definition
The Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) is a widely used clinical measure for assessing muscle tone and spasticity in patients with neurological conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, or multiple sclerosis. The scale rates muscle tone from 0 (no increase in tone) to 4 (affected part rigid), with an additional grade of 1+ (slight increase in tone with minimal resistance). Each muscle group is tested through passive range of motion, and the examiner rates the resistance encountered. While commonly used in clinical practice and research, the scale has limitations in reliability and validity, leading some facilities to use alternative measures or combine it with functional assessments.
Usage
Usage note: Abbreviated as MAS; not to be confused with Motor Assessment Scale which uses the same abbreviation.
In Context
- "Modified Ashworth Scale scores ranged from 1+ in the biceps to 3 in the gastrocnemius following botulinum toxin injection." — Spasticity clinic note
- "Pre-treatment Modified Ashworth Scale documentation is required for anti-spasticity medication approval." — Authorization request