Which term describes the disturbance of muscle tone characterized by stiffness?

The term that describes the disturbance of muscle tone characterized by stiffness is rigidity. Rigidity refers to an increase in muscle tone that leads to resistance to passive movement, impacting the normal flexibility of the muscles. This condition can often be observed in various neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, where the muscles do not relax as they should, resulting in persistent stiffness.

Understanding rigidity is crucial for physical therapists and healthcare professionals as it impacts the treatment plan for patients, guiding interventions to enhance mobility and reduce discomfort.

In contrast, sarcopenia refers to the loss of muscle mass and strength due to aging or inactivity rather than stiffness. Scoliosis is related to an abnormal curvature of the spine, which does not specifically pertain to muscle tone. Scarring is a healing process that occurs after injury but is unrelated to muscle tone disturbance.