Which characteristics are associated with UUMN dysarthria?

UUMN (Unilateral Upper Motor Neuron) dysarthria is characterized by specific speech and motor features due to damage affecting the upper motor neurons that control the muscles used in speech production. The presence of weakness, spasticity, and incoordination aligns closely with the underlying neurophysiology of this condition.

Weakness results from the decreased neural input to the muscles on one side of the face and body, leading to reduced strength in articulatory movements. Spasticity, a common feature of upper motor neuron lesions, causes increased muscle tone and restricted movement, often leading to difficulty in controlling the precise movements needed for clear speech. Incoordination further contributes to the challenges in producing smooth and purposeful speech; it affects the timing and rhythm of speech production, making it less fluid.

The other characteristics listed do not accurately reflect UUMN dysarthria. A fast speech rate does not typically characterize this type of dysarthria; rather, individuals might exhibit a slower speech rate due to the effort needed to articulate properly. Severe and unrelenting nature tends to be more descriptive of other types of dysarthria, where speech may be significantly disrupted. Lastly, UUMN dysarthria often includes less fluency, rather than highly