Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
Spring 5-31-2002
Degree Name
Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering - (M.S.)
Department
Biomedical Engineering Committee
First Advisor
Richard A. Foulds
Second Advisor
David S. Kristol
Third Advisor
Tara L. Alvarez
Abstract
It is generally accepted that spasticity results from changes in the excitability of the stretch reflex. This change lowers the threshold of the motoneurons of the spinal cord where the integration of a signal from velocity/position sensors is processed and then fed back to the contracting muscle (alphaextrafusal and gamma-intrafusal fibers). The stretch reflex depends on the initial length of the muscle, the stretch velocity and voluntary activity. The exact sequence of the triggering events remains unknown, is poorly understood and as a result is controversial. The clinical classification scales are mainly subjective and by definition, inaccurate.
This computational model of spasticity is based on the concept of the existence of a normal neuromuscular control coupling function, which ordinarily encloses the extrafusal and intrafusal fibers, and explains the spasticity as a result of the uncoupling of this normal mechanism. The model involves mechanical parameters and basic neuromuscular control theory.
Recommended Citation
Mantilla, Bruno A., "A computational model of spasticity based on a decoupling of the alpha and gamma efferents" (2002). Theses. 706.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/theses/706
