Tackling Tone in Tiny Tots: Hypertonia Management in Young Children

In young children, hypertonia results from early brain insults leading to upper motor neuron lesions, which cause changes in muscle tone and pathology. These changes contribute to contractures and deformities that impair activity and participation. The management of hypertonia requires a multifaceted approach, combining phyisical and occupational therapy and pharmacologic interventions. However, limited clinical studies exist for pharmacologic treatments in children aged under 3 years, leaving clinicians to rely on experience when prescribing off-label medications. This article reviews the pharmacologic interventions for hypertonia, with an emphasis on evidence-based dosing recommendations in pediatric patients and new innovations for the management of pediatric hypertonia.