Muscle Overactivity in the Upper Motor Neuron Syndrome: Assessment and Problem Solving for Complex Cases: the Role of Physical and Occupational Therapy.

The role of the physical or occupational therapist in addressing muscle hyperexcitability is to carefully assess the implications that the abnormal tone has on function, especially active movement patterns. A thorough evaluation that includes neurologic and nonneurologic attributes allows the clinician to determine the most efficacious treatment interventions, especially when considering severity and chronicity of deficits. A holistic assessment that includes patient factors and resources guides the clinician's plan of care to allow for optimal functional outcomes.