HEMIHYPOTONIA Meaning and
Definition
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Hemihypotonia is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by decreased muscle tone or weakness on one side of the body. The prefix "hemi-" indicates that the weakness specifically affects half of the body, usually either the left or right side. "Hypo-" refers to an underdevelopment or decreased condition, while "tonia" relates to the muscle tone.
Hemihypotonia typically results from an underlying neurological or musculoskeletal disorder. It can be present at birth, also known as congenital hemihypotonia, or may develop later in life due to trauma, stroke, or other neurological conditions. Children may present with hemihypotonia as a symptom of conditions like cerebral palsy or hemiplegia, which affect movement and coordination.
The signs and symptoms of hemihypotonia include weaker muscle strength, diminished reflexes, and difficulties with coordination and balance on the affected side. Individuals with hemihypotonia may have trouble performing daily activities that involve fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning clothes, and may exhibit an asymmetrical posture or gait.
Treatment for hemihypotonia depends on the underlying cause and may involve a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and, in some cases, medication or surgical interventions. The goal of treatment is to promote muscle strength, improve coordination and mobility, and enhance overall functional abilities.
In summary, hemihypotonia refers to diminished muscle tone or weakness on one side of the body, most commonly caused by underlying neurological or musculoskeletal disorders. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate interventions can help individuals with hemihypotonia improve their quality of life and maximize their physical abilities.
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A partial loss of muscular tonicity on one side of the body.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HEMIHYPOTONIA
- gemihypotonia
- bemihypotonia
- nemihypotonia
- jemihypotonia
- uemihypotonia
- yemihypotonia
- hwmihypotonia
- hsmihypotonia
- hdmihypotonia
- hrmihypotonia
- h4mihypotonia
- h3mihypotonia
- henihypotonia
- hekihypotonia
- hejihypotonia
- hemuhypotonia
- hemjhypotonia
- hemkhypotonia
- hemohypotonia
- hem9hypotonia
Etymology of HEMIHYPOTONIA
The word "hemihypotonia" is derived from the combination of three root terms: "hemi-" meaning half or partial, "hypo-" meaning below normal or insufficient, and "tonia" meaning muscle tone.
"Hemihypotonia" specifically refers to a condition where there is a decrease in muscle tone or a lack of muscle tension on one side of the body, affecting only half of the body.
