Abstract: Objective To investigate the incidence of spasticity 6 months after first stroke. Methods 355 patients hospitalized from March 2012 to December 2013 were assessed with the modified Ashworth Scale 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months after stroke. Results The incidence of spasticity was 42.7% in the 1st month, and increased to 63.7% and 65.7% 3 and 6 months after stroke, respectively. The incidence of spasticity was the most 3 months after stroke both in arms and legs. The incidence of moderate to severe spasticity was more in the arms than in the legs. There was no significant difference at incidence of spasticity among foci and ages. Conclusion Spasticity usually occurs within 3 months after stroke, and more frequent in the upper limb than lower limb.

Key words: stroke, spasticity, investigation