National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

A transition from stage 5 to stage 6 of Brunnstrom's Stages of Recovery is primarily characterized by which of the following?

1. Absence of associated reactions

2. Disappearance of spasticity

3. Voluntary movement begins outside of synergy patterns

4. Return of normal motor function

The correct answer is: Disappearance of spasticity

The transition from stage 5 to stage 6 in Brunnstrom's Stages of Recovery is primarily characterized by the disappearance of spasticity. In the context of stroke recovery and motor rehabilitation, Brunnstrom's stages outline the progression through various phases of recovery following a neurological event. As individuals move from stage 5 to stage 6, they experience significant improvements in muscle tone and motor control. The disappearance of spasticity indicates that the patient has gained better control over their movements, allowing for more fluid and coordinated actions without the resistance typically associated with spastic muscles. This is an important marker of progress in recovery, as it reflects a reduction in abnormal muscle tone, leading to increased voluntary movement control. While voluntary movement outside of synergy patterns does start to emerge in stage 5, the hallmark of transitioning to stage 6 is more about the normalization of muscle tone rather than just an increase in motor control. The return of normal motor function signifies a later stage that is not exclusively confined to the characteristics of the transition between these particular stages. Therefore, the clear emphasis on the loss of spasticity accurately represents the key change that occurs as patients recover from significant motor deficits.