I have a five month old who has low muscle tone. He is a very social baby (smiles and coos a lot), but his motor skills are lagging. He does not roll over yet, cannot sit unsupported at all. He's still does not have great head control when held upright. His doc says that he has low muscle tone, but that it is a 'description', not a 'diagnosis' (whatever that means), and it is common in preemies (he was born 2 months early).

We try to do 'tummy time' to strengthen chest muscles, but he has reflux and does not like to be on his stomach. I'm not too concerned yet, but starting to worry, since his progress is slow. When might he outgrow this and 'catch up' to other babies his age? If it doesn't improve, could it be a sign of somthing else going on? Has anyone had child with this issue? Thx.

My 18 month old has low muscle tone. At a year old she could not even pull herself to a seated position. We were referred to Regional Center in California which is a program run by the state to help children with delays. They assess my baby and said she was behind in her motor skills and had low muscle tone. Regional Center now pays for my child to attend physical therapy one a week. It has helped tremendously and very quickly. They gave me many exercises to do at home to strengthen my child's muscles. She is now walking on her own and is doing so much better. If you live in California, you can call Regional Center directly. They will do a phone screening and if your child is significantly behind in motor skills they will send someone to your home to assess your child and see if the state will cover therapy expenses. I'm sure many other states have a similar program so ask your doctor. Good luck!

Yes, you need to contact your state Early Intervention Program. It is a program specifically for children under the age of three that are in need of services such as physical or occupational therapy. Usually they will send evaluators to your home to assess your child through a series of motor tests and ask you about specific milestones and concerns that you may have. Based on those results....you child may qualify for services and have actual physical/occupational therapists come to your home a number of hours per week and work with you and your baby......all paid by the state. They are wonderful programs and help THOUSANDS of children. Hope this is helpful. Good luck to you:angel:

hi my 6 month old son has seizures and is delayed, he cant hold his head up very well, doesn't smile or coo yet, and low muscle tone. we've had early intervention since he was 6 weeks old, we have vision therapy, physical therapy, reike and infant massage all come to our home, your ped. doctor should have the info on this and i would def. call right away, they help alot!! good luck