Pediatric Rehabilitation Lecture Series: Hypotonia-Pediatric Rehabilitation Lecture Series: Hypotonia

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, the speaker discusses hypotonia, which refers to a lack of baseline resistance to passive movement in the muscles. It is different from weakness, although there are overlaps between the two. Diagnostic criteria for hypotonia are not clear, and there is difficulty in distinguishing between hypotonia, ligament laxity, and weakness. Hypotonia can be seen in various conditions, including central causes such as HIE and spastic cerebral palsy, as well as peripheral causes such as SMA and congenital myasthenia gravis. Genetic testing is an important tool in diagnosing the cause of hypotonia in infants, and over half of infants who undergo genetic testing in the NICU will receive a diagnosis. The Baton score is used to measure ligament laxity, and the HINE exam and Bayleyscale are used to assess hypotonia in infants. The management of hypotonia includes interventions such as massage and treadmill training, as well as the use of orthotics for foot and trunk support. The use of containers such as high chairs and bouncers should be limited, and activities that encourage movement and strengthen the core should be encouraged.

Keywords

hypotonia

weakness

diagnostic criteria

genetic testing

NICU

management

massage

orthotics