In addition, hypotonic children will tire more easily and adopt movement patterns requiring the least expenditure of energy. Hypotonic conditions tend to improve with age. Gross motor programs offered by occupational and physical therapists have been shown to diminish hypotonic symptoms. These programs improve large body movements, such as walking, turning, sitting, standing and climbing stairs. Enrollment of children in an early intervention program which includes gross motor programs is recommended at the earliest feasible age, generally between four and six weeks of age.
Atlantoaxial dislocation refers to a problem caused by hypotonia.
The ligaments at the first two cervical vertebra are more relaxed than they should be, putting the individual at risk of spinal cord compression and injury . However, most children with x-ray evidence of atlantoaxial dislocation have no apparent symptoms. Since most children with atlantoaxial dislocation do not exhibit symptoms, lateral cervical x-rays are recommended for all children with Down syndrome after age two. These activities include high-jumping, diving, gymnastics, trampoline, and butterfly strokes in swimming. To devise a safe exercise program for a symptom-free child with atlantoaxial dislocation, consult your doctor.