Table 1 Descriptions of Ashworth and Modified Ashworth Scales

Ashworth Scale

0 No increase in tone

1 Slight increase in tone giving catch when the limb is moved in flexion and extension

2 More marked increase in tone, but limb is easily flexed

3 Considerable increases in tone, passive movement difficult

4 Limb rigid in flexion or extension [17].

Modified Ashworth Scale

0 No increase in muscle tone

1 Slight increase in muscle tone, manifested by a catch and release or by minimal resistance at the end of the range of motion when the affected part(s) is(are) moved in flexion or extension

1+ Slight increase in muscle tone, manifested by a catch followed by minimal resistance through the remainder of the range of motion but the affected part(s) is(are) easily moved.

2 More marked increase in muscle tone through most of the range of movement, but the affected part(s) is easily moved.

3 Considerable increases in muscle tone, passive movement difficult

4 Affected part(s) is (are) rigid in flexion or extension