HYPERTONICITY Meaning and
Definition
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Hypertonicity is a term used in anatomy, physiology, and medicine to describe a state of increased tension or tightness in muscles or other tissues. It refers to the condition where there is excessive tone or contraction of muscles, leading to increased stiffness or rigidity.
In terms of muscle physiology, hypertonicity occurs when the muscle fibers remain in a contracted state for an extended period. This can be a result of various factors, such as neurological conditions, muscle imbalances, or repetitive strain and overuse. Hypertonicity can affect different muscle groups, leading to reduced flexibility, limited range of motion, and overall discomfort or pain.
In medicine, hypertonicity is often associated with conditions such as spasticity, where there is a continuous and involuntary contraction of muscles due to abnormal stimulation from the nervous system. This can occur as a result of neurological disorders like cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or stroke.
Treatment for hypertonicity typically involves a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, stretching exercises, medication, and sometimes surgical interventions. The aim is to alleviate muscle tension, improve range of motion, and enhance functional abilities.
In summary, hypertonicity refers to a condition characterized by excessive muscle tension or tightness, leading to reduced flexibility, limited range of motion, and potential discomfort or pain.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HYPERTONICITY
Etymology of HYPERTONICITY
The word "hypertonicity" is derived from two roots: "hyper-" and "-tonicity".
The prefix "hyper-" originates from the Greek word "huper", meaning "above" or "beyond". In medical terminology, "hyper-" is used to indicate excessive or abnormally high levels of a certain condition.
The suffix "-tonicity" comes from the Greek word "tonos", which means "tension" or "pressure". In medical terms, "-tonicity" generally refers to the state or quality of muscle tone, which represents the tension or resistance in muscles at rest.
Therefore, when combined, "hypertonicity" essentially means a condition of excessive or elevated muscle tone or tension.
Similar spelling words for HYPERTONICITY
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