Hypotonia (Low Muscle Tone)

Hypotonia, or low muscle tone, occurs when the muscles have decreased tension or resistance to movement. Low muscle tone is not the same as muscle weakness, and it can be caused by spinal cord or nerve damage or traumatic brain injury (TBI). This condition may be seen in babies, causing less control of their limbs. In some cases, hypotonia is due to genetics, in others, it's environmental factors or disorders like Down syndrome and cerebral palsy. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment of hypotonia with expert advice from Sharecare.