Symptom 6: The Unmistakable Red Flag – Poor Muscle Tone
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Poor muscle tone, or hypotonia, is a striking symptom of SBS. Infants might appear ‘floppy,’ demonstrating a lack of resistance when moved or held. This is a significant sign of potential neurological damage.
Poor muscle tone results from damage to the nerve pathways in the brain that control muscle movement. In a case of SBS, the forceful shaking can lead to injury to these pathways, leading to this ‘floppy’ appearance.
Although poor muscle tone is a visible symptom of SBS, it’s also a late symptom, usually appearing after other neurological signs. As such, it serves as a compelling call to action for immediate medical attention.(6)
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