Validation of a Wearable Position, Velocity, and Resistance Meter for Assessing Spasticity and Rigidity

Patients with neuromuscular disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD), traumatic brain or spinal cord injury, or multiple sclerosis (MS) can develop different levels of abnormal muscle behavior (hypertonia) such as rigidity and spasticity [1], [2]. Hypertonia can affect different parts of the body such as upper or lower extremities. Symptoms include pain, increased muscle tone, spasms, and decreased functional abilities. Hypertonia can interfere with many activities of daily living, greatly affecting the quality of life in patients and causing anxiety, depression, and social isolation [2].