Many children on the autism spectrum experience hypotonia, or low muscle tone, which is a physiological state where the muscles have less tension at rest. This isn’t about “weakness” in the traditional sense, but rather a delay in the signals sent from the brain to the muscles. This can lead to “W-sitting,” poor posture, or appearing clumsy. Clinically, we address this through vestibular and proprioceptive stimulation, which helps the brain better “map” the body and increases the resting tension of the muscles.
Improving muscle tone is vital for more than just physical movement; it directly impacts postural control, which is the foundation for sitting still at a desk or focusing on a teacher. In the heat of the UAE, where outdoor play can be limited, children with low tone may not get the natural resistance training they need. At Neurobloom, we create “sensory circuits” that challenge the muscular system, improving the child’s endurance for daily activities across Dubai and Sharjah.
The “Grocery Helper” Muscle Build
Involve your child in carrying lightweight groceries from the car to your Al Nahda apartment. This “heavy work” provides the deep pressure input their joints crave and helps activate the core muscles in a functional, real-world way.
Specialist FAQ
- Can you “cure” low muscle tone? You don’t cure it, but you can significantly improve functional strength and postural endurance through consistent therapy.
- How does muscle tone affect speech? The mouth is a cluster of muscles. Low tone in the body often correlates with low tone in the oral-motor area, affecting clarity.
- Is swimming good for this? Yes! The resistance of water in a Dubai pool is excellent for low-tone support, but it should be paired with targeted clinical exercises.
Help your child move with more strength and stability. Visit us at Neurobloom Rehabilitation Centre, Al Nahda 2, Dubai, or call 0507548629 to speak with our physical and occupational therapy team.
