Methods for Assessing Muscle Tone and Motor Functions in the Neonate:

Physical and occupational therapists evaluate neonatal motor functions and muscle tone within the context of sensorimotor abilities. Many neonatal assessments include these functions but within differing contexts. In this review existing neonatal assessments are classified into gestational age, neurological, and behavioral categories. The assessments' purposes, prognostic value, and their coverage of muscle tone and motor functions are discussed. Therapists are cautioned to familiarize themselves with the intents of existing instruments, to be aware of additional factors that may influence an infant's performance on any of these evaluations, and to understand the implications of combining or using parts of assessments whose purposes and natures may vary.