What is Hypotonia?
A certain amount of muscle tone (tension) is present in all muscles, even at rest, and is required to hold the body in proper position and resist movement. Hypotonia is a condition characterized by decreased muscle tone, and it is most common in children, particularly immediately after birth; however, it can also occur later in life.
Symptoms of Hypotonia
Infants with hypotonia have a floppy appearance, like that of a rag doll, and have difficulty holding their head erect due to decreased tone of the neck muscles. When they are carried, their limbs flop straight down instead of slightly bending at the elbows and knees. These infants also take longer to reach their developmental milestones.
Adults with hypotonia tend to fall often, have abnormally high flexibility at the joints, and have difficulty lifting objects and getting up from a sleeping or sitting position. The symptoms may improve, persist, or become worse over time depending on the underlying condition.
Diagnosis of Hypotonia
Since muscle tone is governed by the brain, spinal cord and nerves, damage to these areas can result in hypotonia. Hypotonia is associated with neuromuscular disorde (cerebral palsy), genetic disorders (muscular dystrophy, Down’s syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome), infections (meningitis), congenital hypothyroidism, premature birth, brain and spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, and motor neuron disease. The condition is diagnosed with blood tests and imaging tests.
Treatment for Hypotonia
The prognosis of hypotonia depends on the cause. It can improve if the associated condition is treatable. Premature babies with hypotonia improve as they grow older. Hypotonia of genetic origin usually persists throughout life. Treatment to alleviate symptoms and maintain function includes physical therapy, speech and language therapy, and the use of braces to help with movement.