Table 1.
Scales | Developers | Contents | Behavior assessed | Brief commentary | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Strengths | Weaknesses | ||||
Ashworth Scale |
Ashworth (1964)8
Naghdi (2008)9: modification |
Five‐item scale Investigator reported |
Spasticity |
A classic and widely used scale Simple, valid, and convenient Allows a rapid impression of severity |
Cannot distinguish among types of hypertonia (rigidity, spasticity, or dystonia) |
Tardieu Scale |
Tardieu (1954)11
Boyd (1999)12: modification |
Quality of muscle reaction Angle of muscle reaction |
Spasticity |
Valid and reliable Can be used to distinguish spasticity and contracture; Can be modified according to disease and affected limbs |
Complex Requires experienced investigators |
Hypertonia Assessment Tool | Jethwa (2010)13 | 7‐item, 3‐level scale | Distinguishes spasticity, dystonia, and rigidity | Good validity for spasticity | Validity for dystonia and rigidity has not been confirmed |
Gross Motor Function Measure | Palisano (1997)15 |
Four‐class scale Two versions: 66‐ and 88‐item Investigator reported |
Gross motor performance |
A reliable and valid classification system Comprehensive |
Some children cannot complete this complicated scale Complex Requires experienced investigators |
Pediatric Balance Scale | Franjoine (2003)17 |
Modified from the classic Berg Balance Scale 14‐item, 5‐class scale Investigator reported |
Balance |
Particular optimization for children Valid and reliable |
Subjective |
Manual Muscle Test | Wints (1959) | Includes no movement, test movement, and test positions | Function and strength of individual muscles | Valid and reliable | Complicated Requires a highly experienced therapist |