Hypotonia - Treating hypotonia

The recommended treatment plan for hypotonia (decreased muscle tone) will depend on the underlying cause.

Hypotonia caused by a baby being born prematurely will usually improve as the baby gets older. However, specialist treatment and support may be needed during this time and for other problems associated with prematurity.

Hypotonia in babies born to mothers with myasthenia gravis (a condition that causes weakness in certain muscles) usually improves quickly. Again, specialist treatment and support may be needed while the baby improves.

In cases where hypotonia is caused by an infection, the symptoms may disappear if the infection can be successfully treated.

If it is not possible to cure the underlying cause of hypotonia (as is unfortunately often the case), the two main treatments will be physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Speech and language therapy may also be used.

Physiotherapy

In treating hypotonia, the main objectives of physiotherapy are to:

  • improve posture and co-ordination to compensate for low muscle tone
  • strengthen the muscles around the joints of the arms and legs so they provide more support and stability

You may be offered regular sessions with a physiotherapist, who will ask you or your child to perform a series of exercises and tasks. They will also teach you a range of exercises you can do on a daily basis.

Read more about physiotherapy.

Occupational therapy

Occupational therapy teaches you the skills needed to carry out day-to-day activities. For example, the occupational therapist will focus on improving hand and finger skills needed for dressing and feeding.

As with physiotherapy, you may be offered regular occupational therapy sessions. You will also be taught exercises and tasks you can perform on a daily basis.

Equipment to help you move around easier may also be recommended, such as ankle or foot supports if your ankles are affected by hypotonia.

Read more about occupational therapy.

Speech and language therapy

Speech and language therapy involves being taught a range of techniques by a speech and language therapist (SLT) to help improve any speech or swallowing problems sometimes associated with hypotonia. For example, you may learn exercises that help improve the strength of your swallowing muscles.

Speech and language therapy can also help you develop better control of your jaw and mouth muscles if these are affected by hypotonia.

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