February 7, 2024

Muscle Tone

Muscle tone is the term for the resting length of muscles in the body; or the length of the muscle before a contraction. In low muscle tone (also called hypotonia), the resting length of the muscles is greater than average and causes hyperextension at the joints, or what some refer to as “double jointedness.”

WHAT IS MUSCLE TONE?

Muscle tone is the term for the resting length of muscles in the body; or the length of the muscle before a contraction. In low muscle tone (also called hypotonia), the resting length of the muscles is greater than average and causes hyperextension at the joints, or what some refer to as “double jointedness.” However, the term double jointed is misleading, as a person doesn’t actually have two joints, just increased muscle length and therefore increased flexibility at the joint. In high muscle tone (also called hypertonic), the resting length of the muscle is less than average, which causes the limbs to feel rigid and inflexible.

WHAT CAUSES VARIANCES IN MUSCLE TONE?

Many individuals who are typically developing fall within a range of what is referred to as average muscle tone. However within that spectrum one may fall on the high or low end of muscle tone. Clinically significant high muscle tone in children is most commonly caused by in-utero stroke or brain bleeds, and cerebral palsy. Clinically significant low muscle tone in children is most commonly a symptom of various syndromes, other neurological conditions which are typically diagnosed within the first year of life, or an unknown cause (unknown causes of decreased muscle tone are typically not associated with other developmental delays or issues unlike the syndromes or neurological conditions).

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CHILD HAS HIGH OR LOW MUSCLE TONE?

High muscle tone in children is typically identified within the first 18 months of life. Your child may seem stiff or rigid in all limbs, on one side of his/her body, or in one half of the body (either the upper or lower extremities). Children with high muscle tone may have delayed gross and fine motor skill development, have difficulty “relaxing” his/her muscles, maintain a fisted hand beyond 6 months of age, or may present with very stiff legs that appear to move like scissors when standing or attempting movement.

Low muscle tone in children that impacts functioning is typically identified within the first 5 years of life. Your child’s limbs may seem floppy or loose, and he may often seem fatigued and prefer to lie down versus sit upright. She may also attain her motor milestones on the late end of average or later than average.

HOW CAN I HELP TREAT MY CHILD’S CONDITION?

Children with high muscle tone will benefit greatly from physical and occupational therapy to stretch affected muscles and strengthen opposing muscles which then improves overall functioning. Compensation strategies to work with an affected limb can also be taught as the child ages. Botulinum toxin (commonly known as Botox), which temporarily paralyzes muscles, can also be helpful in children 18 months of age and older. Use of this treatment modality should only be completed in conjunction with occupational or physical therapy sessions, to most effectively utilize the benefits of this drug.

Children with low muscle tone will benefit greatly from physical and occupational therapy to strengthen muscle groups in order to decrease the impact of low muscle tone. This treatment also impacts overall functioning including coordination and attainment of motor skills.

OUR APPROACH AT NORTH SHORE PEDIATRIC THERAPY

Our physical and occupational therapists are highly specialized to work within the pediatric population. We will first complete an evaluation to determine the impact muscle tone is having on your child’s motor and sensory skills. If deemed beneficial physical and/or occupational therapy services on a consistent basis will be initiated. A home exercise program will be created for your child that will be motivating and appropriate for your child’s needs. Parent/caregiver training will also be provided to ensure that the home exercise program is properly completed.

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Success looks different for every child... But we bet we have a story that matches your child's needs. Like James, who started with us as non-speaking and lacking the ability to initiate and maintain social interactions. Today, he can speak complete sentences, clearly state his needs, and navigate social interactions with his friends!

Our infant daughter was in physical therapy with Anna Zahn for about five months.  Anna was consistent, patient, and wonderful with our daughter.  Anna was also clear in her communications with us as parents which helped us understand our daughter's progress and needs, as well as how we could help our daughter at home.  While we are proud that our daughter graduated PT, we will miss Anna's warmth and kindness.

Emily

I love this place! Chista is an amazing person, so sweet and kind and very professional in her work. All staff are very kind with children. I feel happy to find this place for my daughter. Thank you!!!

Maria Di Rita

I cannot say enough nice things about the staff! My son worked with Khadija as his ABA therapist and is finishing up this week with his OT, Sabrina. They were really instrumental in helping us navigate a new diagnosis. Both were so easy to approach with questions. From Leeann at the front desk to the RBTs (Alex, Rabbia, Molly, and many others), we always felt so welcomed. It seems like the staff genuinely enjoy their jobs, consistently offering feedback and suggestions on how to help my son.

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We have been working with the amazing team at NSPT for many years. They have been essential in understanding and supporting our child. I recommend their services to anyone looking for their specific type of support.Posted to

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They are so sweet and kinds persons with professionalism and really worried about the kids and how help they to get new skills and moving forward with knowledge.

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NSPT is fantastic! All of the staff are wonderful, accomodating, and make you feel welcome and comfortable. Alan is fantastic - he has helped our family tremendously and has such patience and purpose in everything he does.

Alex Ehrhardt

North Shore Pediatric Therapy has been amazing.  They have done a great job adjusting to the specific needs of my autistic child.

Matt Nakanishi

My 12 yr old son has a lovely support team in Robert (Social Work) and Lindsay (OT)! He gains so much from his sessions & I gain so much from the communication and brainstorming! Thanks!

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