Hypotonia is a medical term used to describe a state of decreased muscle tone or the inability to maintain normal muscle tension. It refers to a condition characterized by reduced or abnormally low resistance to passive movement in the muscles. Hypotonia can affect any muscle group in the body, resulting in a lack of muscle strength, coordination, and control.
Individuals with hypotonia typically exhibit floppy or loose muscles, making them appear limp and lacking in muscle tone. This can manifest as difficulties with posture and movement, leading to challenges in sitting, standing, walking, or performing other motor activities. Hypotonic muscles often feel soft and squishy when touched, unlike the firmness and tension commonly associated with normal muscle tone.
Hypotonia can be caused by various factors, including neurological disorders, genetic conditions, metabolic abnormalities, or muscle diseases. It may be present at birth (congenital) or acquired later in life due to injury or illness. Symptoms and severity of hypotonia can vary widely from mild muscle weakness to more severe forms affecting overall mobility and developmental milestones.
Diagnosis of hypotonia typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals, including physical examinations, medical history review, and potentially, specialized testing such as electromyography or genetic studies. Treatment for hypotonia depends on its underlying cause and may involve therapeutic interventions such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, or the use of assistive devices and adaptive technologies to improve muscle tone, strength, and functional abilities.
