Hypotonia (Low Muscle Tone)

Hypotonia is another term for low muscle tone. Low muscle tone is not the same thing as muscle weakness-instead, it means that the muscles have decreased tension or resistance to movement. Hypotonia is not a single condition-it's actually a symptom that... Full Answer

When caring for someone with hypotonia, the most important thing is to follow your doctor's advice for treating the underlying cause of the condition. This may include long-term medication and therapy. If your baby has hypotonia, remember that babies... Full Answer

Treatment of hypotonia begins with a thorough diagnostic evaluation, including an assessment of motor and sensory skills, balance and coordination, mental status, reflexes, and functioning of the nerves. Diagnostic tests, such as a CT scan of the brain,... Full Answer

Generally, medications aren't the primary treatment used for hypotonia. However, treatment depends on the underlying cause of the low muscle tone. If the underlying condition is an infection or other disorder that can be treated with medications, then... Full Answer

Managing hypotonia generally depends on the cause for the decreased muscle tone. Many of the conditions that cause hypotonia require continuous treatment, including medications and therapies. It's important to follow your doctor's advice for treating... Full Answer

Treatment for hypotonia-including alternative treatment-usually depends on the underlying condition that's causing the decreased muscle tone. In general, therapies that strengthen muscles and improve fine motor skills are the most helpful treatment for... Full Answer

The risk for hypotonia depends on its underlying cause. If you have a genetic condition that affects your muscles, nerves, or brain, your risk for low muscle tone is increased. Examples of these conditions include muscular dystrophy, Down syndrome, and... Full Answer

Hypotonia is itself a symptom-it's low muscle tone that may be caused by a variety of disorders or injuries. If low muscle tone occurs in infants, the baby may seem "floppy" or like a rag doll. Babies often have poor control of neck muscles, causing... Full Answer

If you or your child is experiencing symptoms of hypotonia, or low muscle tone, it's best to talk with your doctor. In babies, symptoms of hypotonia usually include limp limbs and poor neck and head control, resulting in a "floppy baby" or "rag doll"... Full Answer

Depending on the underlying cause of the condition, there may or may not be a cure for hypotonia. In some cases, especially if the cause if a genetic disorder, hypotonia and its symptoms may last a lifetime. Sometimes, if the condition is due to injury... Full Answer