Comparison of energy expenditure at rest and during hypermyotonia in subjects with severe physical and mental disability

Abstract

  Energy expenditure at rest and during hypermyotonia was measured using an indirect calorimeter in four subjects with severe physical and mental disability who showed large fluctuations in muscle tone. Energy consumption during hypermyotonia was 2.1 to 5.8 times greater than at rest. Our results confirmed that there were subjects in whom energy consumption increased significantly due to hypermyotonia. In addition to awareness of the importance of muscle tone control, it is necessary to administer appropriate nutrition in consideration of the degree, frequency, and duration of hypermyotonia in each individual case.