What is hypotonia?

Hypotonia is the most common motor disorder in newborn infants. In this post we will discuss what it is, along with symptoms, common underlying diagnosis it’s associated with, and treatment options for hypotonia.

Hypotonia:

Hypotonia is the lack of adequate tension in the resting muscle, often resulting in muscles that look loose or floppy. Another common name for this condition that you may have heard of before is low muscle tone. While it is a very common condition, early detection and treatment is key to helping your child reach their motor milestones.

Underlying Diagnosis:

Hypotonia is often a symptom of another co-occurring condition. Some of the most common diagnosis that are accompanyied with hypotonia are:

• Down Syndrom

• Muscular Atrophy

• Cerebral Palsy

• Prader-Willi Syndrome

• Myotonic Dystrophy

• Marfan Syndrome

• Tay-Sachs Disease

Hypotonia Treatment:

Many children work with a physical and/or occupational therapist throughout their life to work on developmental milestones. Depending on your child’s current level of development they may work toward sitting, crawling, walking, coordination, or participation in sports. Adaptive equipment such as walkers, wheelchair, and orthotics might be helpful for the child to access their community.

Signs of Hypotonia:

Hypotonia is fairly recognizable in infancy. Please contact your doctor or a pediatric physical, or occupational therapist If you start to notice your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Lift their head or control neck muscles

• Feels limp when held

• Cannot place weight on their legs

• Has difficulty sucking or swallowing