4. Motor & Sensory Impairment Remediation Post Acquired Brain Injury

The primary cause of motor impairment and movement dysfunction post acquired brain injury is upper motor neuron syndrome (UMNS). UMNS results in both positive symptoms of enhanced stretch reflexes (spasticity), released flexor reflexes in the lower limbs, such as the Babinski sign and mass synergy patterns as well as negative symptoms including loss of dexterity and weakness [Mayer 1997]. These symptoms of upper motor neuron syndrome have physiologic implications for muscles which often subsequently develop stiffness and contracture thereby further negatively affecting effective movement [Mayer 1997].