Hypotonia is decreased muscle tone.
Hypotonia is different frommuscle weakness.
Normal muscles always have a small amount of contraction, even when they are relaxed.
Catherine Delahaye
People with hypotonia do not have any contractions in their muscles.
They usually have poor head control.
This article will describe the signs and causes of hypotonia, possible diagnostic tests, and treatment options.
Symptoms
Hypotonia describes an absence of muscle tone.
Muscle tone is controlled by the signals that run from the brain to the nerves in the muscles.
When one of these components is damaged, hypotonia results.
Damage to the brain, spinal cord, nerves, or muscles could result in hypotonia.
Damage to these structures could come from trauma, genetics, infection, or an underlying medical condition.
This usually includes a visit to a pediatricneurologist.
A pediatric geneticist may be consulted as well.
The diagnostic process starts with a physical exam to evaluate the nervous system and muscle function.
Treatment
Treatment for hypotonia depends on the underlying cause.
Once the diagnosis is made, the treatment plan is developed based on the underlying condition or injury.
Once the cause itself is addressed, the healthcare provider will help the patient manage their symptoms.
Two forms of treatment that are very helpful for hypotonia arephysical therapyand occupational therapy.
A physical therapist can assist with muscle stretching and strengthening over time.
An occupational therapist specializes in fine motor skills and can provide education and training in speech and swallowing techniques.
Prognosis
The prognosis for hypotonia depends on the underlying cause.
Many of the neuromuscular and genetic diseases that cause hypotonia cannot be cured.
However, many of the symptoms can be addressed.
Summary
“Hypotonia” means “lack of muscle tone.”
Possible causes include Down syndrome, muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, and Prader-Willi syndrome.
Treatment for hypotonia depends on the underlying cause.
Once the cause is addressed, the healthcare team will then address the symptoms.
Your care team will likely include a physical therapist and occupational therapist.
There is no known cure for hypotonia.
However, some infants and children with hypotonia are able to gain strength and muscle tone over time.
The prognosis depends on the underlying cause.
Mercuri E, Pera MC, Brogna C.Neonatal hypotonia and neuromuscular conditions.Handb Clin Neurol.
2019;162:435-448. doi:10.1016/B978-0-444-64029-1.00021-7
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Hypotonia information page.
Boston Childrens Hospital.Muscle weakness (hypotonia).
