Hypertonicity in Children with Cerebral Palsy: A New Perspective

Objectives: Hypertonicity is a major problem in children with cerebral palsy that has not been explained effectively to address clinical decision making. Therefore, this article aims to provide a theoretical framework about hypertonicity for clinicians, rehabilitation and medical practitioners to be used in their practice. Methods: Literature was reviewed to examine the new perspectives towards the hypertonicity and its signs and symptoms. Then, these symptoms were scrutinized to identify various aspects of the phenomena. Results: The results of this review revealed various components of hypertonicity, including neural and biomechanical. Neural component was also classified into positive and negative symptoms. These components altogether influence gross and fine motor function and consequently disturb children in their daily activities. Discussion: Using term “spasticity” is not definitively enough to explain various aspects of the affected persons. Therefore, the term “hypertonicity” appears to be much appropriate to be used by professions in their daily practices. Furthermore, to have a very effective intervention, practitioners should consider all various signs and symptoms of hypertonicity that are explained in this review.