Hypertonia is caused by upper motor neuron lesions which may result from injury, disease, or conditions that involve damage to the central nervous system. The lack of or decrease in upper motor neuron function leads to loss of inhibition with resultant hyperactivity of lower motor neurons.

What causes Hypertonicity?

Hypertonia can be caused by injury to the central nervous system or spinal cord causing disturbances in the nerve pathways that are responsible for muscle tone. Symptoms of hypertonia include loss of function, decreased range of movement, deformity and muscle stiffness.

How can Hypertonicity be reduced?

Treatment interventions for upper limb hypertonicity include stretching, splinting, strengthening of antagonist muscles, oral medications, and focal injections (phenol or botulinum toxins). Intrathecal baclofen may also impact upper limb tone.