Hypotonia literally means low muscle tone. Therefore, hypotonia is really a symptom rather than a specific diagnosis.  It can be caused by a variety of conditions. Its severity can vary significantly, from mild to severe hypotonia depending on the cause.

If you suspect that your child has hypotonia, it is important to get an assessment from a doctor to rule out any serious conditions.   In many cases the doctor will be able to examine your child and reassure you that there is not a serious underlying condition.  In some instances the doctor will carry out specific tests to eliminate specific disorders.  The majority of children with hypotonia do not have a severe underlying problem.

The doctor may give your child a diagnosis of Benign Congenital Hypotonia (BCH).  This condition is also called Congenital Hypotonia, Congenital Muscle Hypotonia, Congenital Muscle Weakness and Amyotonia Congenita

Benign Congenital Hypotonia literally means "a harmless case of poor muscle tone since birth".  Children with BCH will typically have the following symptoms:

• Low muscle tone, causing a general weakness and flaccidity (floppiness) of the muscles.
• Hypermobility of joints.  The range of movement at the joints is excessive, this is often most noticeable at the hips, elbows and knees.
• Poor head control and difficulty holding head up. When lifted to sitting, their head will fall backwards (this is called a ‘head lag’). 
• Delayed physical milestones ("developmental delay")
• Reluctance to lie on their tummy to play (because of muscle weakness around the neck and shoulders).
• Rolling or bottom shuffling instead of crawling.
• Poor sucking and chewing
• Drooling and speech difficulties
• Constipation

Hypotonic babies will need extra stimulation to use their muscles in the right way.  Older children may need exercises to improve their posture, muscle strength and coordination.

If you suspect that your child has hypotonia, it is important to take them to your GP who will carry out the necessary assessments to rule out other more serious conditions.   The doctor may then refer your child to a paediatric physiotherapist.

KidsPhysio will be able to assess your child’s needs and advise you on exercises and activities to strengthen your child’s muscles and promote their development.  Following the assessment, your physiotherapist can provide advice and monitoring or regular treatment depending on your and your child’s needs.  Your physiotherapist will also visit your child’s nursery, if you wish, to help the staff understand the therapy and activities they can carry out during the school day.