Ashworth Scale (AS) and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS)

Summary

What it measures:

Both the Ashworth Scale (AS) and Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) are used to assess spasticity.

Target Population:

The AS and MAS have been utilized in the following populations: stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, pediatric hypertonia, and central nervous system lesions. This summary contains information on use of this test in patients or clients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

The Spinal Cord Injury EDGE Task Force of the Neurology Section of APTA does not recommend AS. The task force classifies MAS as reasonable to use, but there is limited study in the population of individuals with SCI.

Members Only Content

Join APTA to get unlimited access to content including evidence-based research, guidance on payment changes, and other resources to help you thrive. Learn more about membership benefits.

Yes, sign me up for an APTA membership!

Already a member? Log in

You Might Also Like...

CPG

American College of Chest Physicians and Canadian Thoracic Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for Cannabis and Cannabinoid-Based Medicines in the Management of Chronic Pain and Co-Occurring Conditions

Mar 27, 2023

This guideline was created by the American College of Chest Physicians and Canadian Thoracic Society to help clinicians and patients gauge the appropriate

CPG

Multiple Sclerosis in Adults: Management [NICE NG220]

Jun 22, 2022

This guideline covers diagnosing and managing multiple sclerosis in people aged 18 and over and aims to improve the quality of life for adults with multiple

Clinical Summary

Functional Movement Disorders

Jan 13, 2022

Functional movement disorders (FMD) are characterized by a sudden onset of neurological symptoms resulting in abnormal involuntary movements with symptom