Question

A client has spasticity in the dominant upper extremity

secondary to an upper motor neuron lesion. The COTA, who is service
competent in using physical agent modalities, is applying a cold
pack over t

Answer 1

If a person has a motor disorder and cannot move their arm voluntarily but has muscle tone, the upper motor neuron (UMN) is likely affected. UMN lesions are characterized by muscle weakness, decreased control of movement, spasticity, and the clasp-knife response. In contrast, lower motor neuron (LMN) lesions typically result in muscle weakness and decreased muscle tone.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a person has a motor disorder and cannot move their arm voluntarily, but their muscles have tone, the most likely affected motor neuron is the upper motor neuron (UMN).

UMN lesions are characterized by muscle weakness, strong deep tendon reflexes, decreased control of movement, spasticity, and the clasp-knife response. Spasticity is an excessive contraction in resistance to stretch, resulting in hyperflexia and limited movement. In contrast, lower motor neuron (LMN) lesions typically result in muscle weakness, muscle atrophy, fasciculations, and decreased muscle tone (hypotonia).

In the given scenario, the presence of tone suggests that the muscle fibers are still receiving input from the UMN, but voluntary movement is impaired, indicating an UMN lesion.