In the recovery phase after spinal shock, which development is commonly observed as reflexes begin to return and motor function improves?

In the recovery phase after spinal shock, which development is commonly observed as reflexes begin to return and motor function improves?

• A. Spasticity with hyperreflexia
• B. Progressive loss of sensation
• C. Immediate return of normal motor control
• D. Permanent paralysis

Answer: (A)

When spinal shock resolves, the spinal reflex circuits begin to wake up again. But with loss of higher-level inhibition, these reactivated reflex pathways can become overactive. That leads to spasticity, which is an increased, velocity-dependent muscle tone, and hyperreflexia, where reflex responses are exaggerated. This combination is a common sign that motor pathways are returning and volume of voluntary control is increasing, even though the control is still unwieldy and accompanied by increased tone. The other options don’t fit this typical pattern: sensation doesn’t inherently worsen as recovery begins, normal motor control is not immediately restored, and permanent paralysis would mean no recovery at all, which isn’t the usual course described here.

When spinal shock resolves, the spinal reflex circuits begin to wake up again. But with loss of higher-level inhibition, these reactivated reflex pathways can become overactive. That leads to spasticity, which is an increased, velocity-dependent muscle tone, and hyperreflexia, where reflex responses are exaggerated. This combination is a common sign that motor pathways are returning and volume of voluntary control is increasing, even though the control is still unwieldy and accompanied by increased tone. The other options don’t fit this typical pattern: sensation doesn’t inherently worsen as recovery begins, normal motor control is not immediately restored, and permanent paralysis would mean no recovery at all, which isn’t the usual course described here.