HYPOTONICITY Meaning and
Definition
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Hypotonicity refers to a condition characterized by a decreased or deficient muscle tone or tension in the body. It is a state where the muscles lack the necessary tone or strength to maintain normal tension, resulting in a flaccid or floppy appearance.
In the medical field, hypotonicity is often observed in relation to muscle disorders, neurologic conditions, or certain genetic syndromes. For example, individuals with conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or Down syndrome may experience hypotonicity as a result of damage or abnormalities in the central nervous system.
The main symptoms of hypotonicity include reduced resistance to passive movement, difficulty in maintaining posture, and diminished muscle strength and reflexes. Infants with hypotonicity might have difficulties with tasks like sitting up or crawling due to the decreased muscle tone.
Medical professionals may assess hypotonicity through various methods, such as physical examinations, observing the patient's muscle response, or conducting specialized tests like electromyography (EMG). Treatment for hypotonicity often focuses on addressing the underlying cause, enhancing muscle strength and tone through physical therapy, occupational therapy, and exercises. In some cases, medications or surgery might be recommended to manage the underlying condition contributing to the hypotonicity.
Overall, hypotonicity refers to a state of reduced muscle tone and strength, which can significantly impact a person's ability to perform movements and maintain posture.
Common Misspellings for HYPOTONICITY
- gypotonicity
- bypotonicity
- nypotonicity
- jypotonicity
- uypotonicity
- yypotonicity
- htpotonicity
- hgpotonicity
- hhpotonicity
- hupotonicity
- h7potonicity
- h6potonicity
- hyootonicity
- hylotonicity
- hy-otonicity
- hy0otonicity
- hypitonicity
- hypktonicity
- hypltonicity
- hypptonicity
Etymology of HYPOTONICITY
The word "hypotonicity" is derived from the combination of two components: "hypo" and "tonicity".
1. "Hypo" is a Greek prefix meaning "under" or "below". It is commonly used in words to indicate a deficiency, decrease, or lower level.
2. "Tonicity" is a term that comes from the Greek word "tonos", meaning "stretch" or "tension". In medicine and physiology, it refers to the state of muscle tone or tension in a muscle or group of muscles.
Combining these components, "hypotonicity" is formed, describing the state or condition of having low or decreased muscle tone.
Similar spelling words for HYPOTONICITY
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