Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

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What is a characteristic finding in lower motor neuron disorders related to muscle tone?

Hypertonia
Hypotonia
Spasticity
Rigidity

The correct answer is: Hypotonia

In lower motor neuron disorders, hypotonia is a characteristic finding. This condition is marked by decreased muscle tone, leading to muscles that feel weak and floppy. This occurs because lower motor neurons are responsible for transmitting signals from the spinal cord to the muscles, and when they are damaged or not functioning properly, the muscles do not receive adequate stimulation. As a result, the muscle tone becomes diminished. Hypotonia can manifest in various ways, such as difficulty in maintaining posture, reduced resistance to passive movement, and a generally weaker physical appearance. It is important to understand that this is fundamentally different from conditions that present with hypertonia, spasticity, or rigidity, which are associated with upper motor neuron lesions.