Supporting children with high muscle tone, stiffness, and restricted movement
Hypertonia, commonly referred to as spasticity, is a condition where muscles remain overly tight, making movement difficult and sometimes uncomfortable. Children with high muscle tone may experience stiffness, limited joint movement, poor posture, and difficulty performing smooth, coordinated actions.
At Next Level Speech and Physiotherapy Dubai, our pediatric physiotherapists provide specialised physiotherapy programs for children with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy (CP), hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), and genetic or neurodevelopmental disorders. Our focus is on improving mobility, comfort, functional movement, and overall quality of life.
Families across Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters Island, and nearby areas trust us for structured, compassionate neurological care.
To understand how this fits within our wider services, visit our Pediatric Physiotherapy page.
How High Muscle Tone Affects Daily Movement
Children with hypertonia or spasticity may show:
- Stiff or rigid muscles
- Limited range of motion in joints
- Difficulty relaxing muscles after movement
- Scissoring of legs or toe walking
- Abnormal postures of arms, hands, or legs
- Delayed motor milestones
- Fatigue during simple activities
- Difficulty with balance, walking, or transfers
These challenges can affect independence, comfort, and participation in daily routines.
Conditions Commonly Associated With Spasticity
Hypertonia may be present in children with:
- Cerebral palsy (spastic diplegia, hemiplegia, quadriplegia)
- Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)
- Genetic or chromosomal conditions
- Brain or spinal cord injuries
- Neurological developmental disorders
Physiotherapy plays a key role in long-term management alongside medical care.
Neurological Assessment: Understanding Tone and Function
Our assessment process focuses on both movement quality and functional ability. This may include:
- Evaluation of muscle tone and stiffness
- Joint range of motion assessment
- Posture analysis in sitting, standing, and movement
- Observation of functional skills such as rolling, sitting, standing, and walking
- Balance and coordination evaluation
- Gait analysis if walking is present
- Review of assistive devices or orthoses, if used
- Discussion with parents about daily challenges and goals
Parents receive a clear explanation of findings and realistic therapy expectations.
Physiotherapy Goals for Hypertonia Management
While muscle tone itself cannot be eliminated, physiotherapy focuses on helping the child move more effectively and comfortably. Therapy goals may include:
- Improving joint flexibility and movement range
- Reducing stiffness through guided movement and positioning
- Enhancing postural control and alignment
- Supporting functional skills such as sitting, standing, and walking
- Encouraging smoother, more controlled movement patterns
- Preventing secondary complications such as contractures
- Supporting participation in daily activities
Each program is tailored to the child’s neurological profile and functional level.
Treatment Techniques We Use
Therapy sessions are carefully structured and may include:
- Gentle stretching to maintain joint mobility
- Positioning strategies to reduce abnormal postures
- Weight-bearing activities to support muscle control
- Functional strengthening within safe movement ranges
- Balance and trunk control exercises
- Gait training when appropriate
- Facilitation techniques to encourage controlled movement
- Education on safe handling and transfers
All techniques are adapted to the child’s tolerance and abilities.
Supporting Comfort and Function at Home
Home management is a critical part of spasticity care. We guide families on:
- Daily stretching routines
- Optimal positioning during rest, play, and feeding
- Safe handling and carrying techniques
- Use of supportive seating or mobility aids
- Integrating therapy strategies into daily routines
Home-based physiotherapy sessions are available for families who prefer therapy in a familiar environment.
Monitoring Progress Over Time
Children with neurological conditions benefit from ongoing review. We regularly assess:
- Changes in movement quality
- Joint mobility and posture
- Functional skill progression
- Comfort and ease of daily activities
- Need for program adjustment during growth
This ensures therapy remains appropriate as the child develops.
Why Families Choose Next Level Speech and Physiotherapy Dubai
Parents choose our clinic because we offer:
- DHA-licensed pediatric physiotherapists experienced in neurological rehabilitation
- Individualised tone-management programs
- A calm, supportive, child-centred environment
- Coordination with other healthcare providers when needed
- Clinic and home-based therapy options
- Clear communication and parent education
Our goal is to support children in achieving their best possible movement and independence.
Book a Neurological Physiotherapy Assessment
We support children and families from Dubai Marina, JLT, JBR, Bluewaters Island, Palm Jumeirah, and surrounding areas.
To arrange an assessment, please contact us.
Tone Management Is a Daily Process
Spasticity management does not happen in isolation during therapy sessions alone. Muscle tone is influenced by positioning, movement frequency, posture, and daily routines.
Physiotherapy provides families with strategies that extend beyond the clinic, helping integrate tone management into everyday life. This consistent approach supports comfort, mobility, and prevention of secondary complications.
Long-term success depends on collaboration between therapists, caregivers, and the child’s environment.
FAQs – Hypertonia / Spasticity Physiotherapy
1. Can physiotherapy reduce spasticity?
Physiotherapy does not eliminate spasticity but helps manage stiffness, improve mobility, and enhance functional movement.
2. Is physiotherapy important even if my child is receiving medical treatment?
Yes. Physiotherapy complements medical management by maintaining movement, strength, and functional skills.
3. When should therapy begin for children with high muscle tone?
Early intervention is strongly recommended to support development and prevent secondary complications.
4. Will therapy be painful for my child?
No. All techniques are gentle and adapted to your child’s comfort level.
5. How often will therapy be needed?
Frequency depends on the child’s condition and goals. Some children benefit from regular ongoing therapy.
6. Can therapy help with walking?
Yes. Gait training and functional strengthening are part of therapy when appropriate.
7. Do parents need to be involved?
Yes. Parent education is essential for consistent care at home.
8. Are home sessions available?
Yes. Home-based physiotherapy is available for neurological cases.
9. Will my child need lifelong physiotherapy?
Some children require long-term support, while others may need therapy during key growth stages.
10. How do I get started?
You can begin by visiting our Contact Us page to book an assessment.