Paratonia
Pronunciation: pair-uh-TOH-nee-uh
An abnormal form of muscle tone characterized by variable resistance that changes with the examiner's movements.
Full Definition
Paratonia, also known as gegenhalten, is a form of abnormal muscle tone where patients exhibit variable resistance to passive movement that seems to fluctuate with the examiner's efforts. Unlike spasticity, which shows consistent velocity-dependent resistance, paratonia appears as an inability to relax muscles voluntarily during examination. The resistance may increase when the examiner moves faster or may seem oppositional, as if the patient is actively resisting. This condition is commonly seen in patients with frontal lobe damage, dementia, or diffuse brain injury. Paratonia can significantly complicate rehabilitation efforts and requires specific handling techniques and therapeutic approaches that focus on relaxation and movement awareness.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with spasticity; document variability of resistance patterns.
In Context
- "The patient demonstrated paratonia during range of motion exercises, with resistance varying unpredictably throughout the movement." — Physical therapy assessment
- "Paratonia complicated passive stretching interventions, requiring modified handling techniques and relaxation strategies." — Rehabilitation progress note