What effect does increased muscle tone have on movement?

Increased muscle tone, often associated with conditions such as spasticity, leads to a state of heightened muscle tension. This heightened state can significantly limit the range of motion, making it difficult for individuals to perform movements freely. The increased resistance in the muscles prevents them from relaxing fully, which can result in stiffness and a reduced ability to achieve full motion at a joint or within a muscle group. Consequently, this limitation can hinder overall movement efficiency and coordination, impacting activities of daily living and functional mobility in individuals, particularly in those recovering from strokes or neurological impairments. Understanding this effect is crucial in developing rehabilitation strategies that prioritize flexibility and normalization of muscle tone to enhance movement quality.