Neuromuscular Treatment Methods for Children

Innovative Neuromuscular Treatment Methods for Children with Abnormal Motor Development and/or Central Develop System Disorders

The field of pediatric rehabilitation has witnessed significant advancements in neuromuscular treatment methods, particularly those based on developmental kinesiology, aimed at addressing abnormal motor development and central nervous system disorders in children. These innovative approaches have shown promise in optimizing the movement system and promoting functional recovery. This article provides an overview of these dynamic treatment methods and their potential implications for pediatric rehabilitation.

Vojta Therapy

History

The Vojta Therapy method, developed by Prof. Vaclav Vojta, has its roots in the Czech Republic. Vojta was a pediatrician and neurologist who developed the therapy in the 1950s. The therapy was initially used to treat children with cerebral palsy and other neuromuscular disorders. The therapy has since been refined and expanded to address a broader range of neuromuscular disorders in children.

Assessment

Vojta Therapy involves a comprehensive assessment of the child's neuromotor abilities, including the identification of abnormal movement patterns and neuromotor abnormalities such as spastic, ataxic, and dyskinetic types. The assessment consists of a 6-position test, where the therapist applies pressure to predetermined stimulus zones while the child is in specific body positions. The evaluation is based on the number of abnormal reflexes observed during the test. In addition, the therapy integrates persisting primary reflexes treatment, which involves the identification and treatment of primary reflexes that persist beyond their normal developmental period. The diagnosis is communicated to the parents, and the treatment plan is tailored to the specific neuromotor deficits observed in the child.

Treatment

The therapy is provided by trained therapists who stimulate the affected side to promote desired muscle action, correct abnormal movement patterns, and restore normal movement patterns conducive to performing everyday activities.

Providers

Vojta Therapy: To become a Vojta therapist, individuals must undergo specialized training to learn the precise techniques and principles of Vojta Therapy. This training typically involves a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application under the guidance of experienced professionals. Upon completion of the training, individuals may pursue certification or licensure to practice Vojta Therapy. For more information on Vojta Therapy training, you can visit the official website of the International Vojta Society (https://www.vojta.co.uk).

Bobath Approach

History

The Bobath Approach, also known as the Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT), was developed by Berta Bobath, a physiotherapist, and Karel Bobath, a psychiatrist/neuropsychiatrist, in the 1940s. They developed this approach for effective management of neuro-motor dysfunctions manifested by children with cerebral palsy. The Bobath concept provided a new reference that viewed children with cerebral palsy as having difficulty with postural control and movement, rather than as having a fixed neurological deficit.

Assessment

The Bobath Approach includes a thorough assessment of the child's movement patterns and neuromotor abnormalities, such as spastic, ataxic, and dyskinetic types. The assessment involves identifying abnormal movement patterns and the type of neuromotor abnormality to guide the treatment. The therapy integrates persisting primary reflexes treatment, which involves the identification and treatment of primary reflexes that persist beyond their normal developmental period. The diagnosis is communicated to the parents, and the treatment plan is tailored to the specific neuromotor deficits observed in the child.

Treatment and Providers

The therapy is a hands-on, client-centered approach provided by trained therapists who plan preparatory work to enable the client to perform tasks and facilitate feedforward as the child practices the skill or task with the therapist's guidance.

Providers

Bobath Approach: The Bobath Approach requires specialized training for healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists and occupational therapists, to become certified Bobath therapists. This training encompasses a deep understanding of neurodevelopmental treatment principles and hands-on practice to effectively implement the Bobath Approach in pediatric rehabilitation. For more information on Bobath Approach training, you can visit the official website of the Bobath Centre for Children with Cerebral Palsy (https://www.bobath.org.uk).

Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)

History

Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) was developed by Professor Pavel Kolar, a Czech physiotherapist, in the 1980s. DNS is based on the principles of developmental kinesiology and the neurophysiological aspects of motor control. The therapy aims to restore the integrated spinal stabilization system through specialized functional exercises.

Assessment

DNS involves a comprehensive analysis of the child's quality of stability and/or movement to identify neuromuscular abnormalities and biomechanical deficits. The assessment involves identifying abnormal movement patterns and neuromotor abnormalities to guide the treatment. The therapy integrates persisting primary reflexes treatment, which involves the identification and treatment of primary reflexes that persist beyond their normal developmental period. The diagnosis is communicated to the parents, and the treatment plan is tailored to the specific neuromotor deficits observed in the child.

Treatment

The therapy method, provided by trained professionals, focuses on restoring the integrated spinal stabilization system through specialized functional exercises.

Providers

Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS): DNS training is designed for healthcare professionals, including physiotherapists, chiropractors, and other rehabilitation specialists. The training involves in-depth study and practical training in DNS principles and techniques. Upon completion of the training, individuals may seek certification in DNS to apply the method in clinical practice. For more information on DNS training, you can visit the official website of the Prague School of Rehabilitation (https://www.rehabps.com).

HANDLE (Holistic Approach to NeuroDevelopment and Learning Efficiency)

History

HANDLE (Holistic Approach to NeuroDevelopment and Learning Efficiency) was developed by Judith Bluestone, an educator and therapist, in the 1990s. Bluestone developed the therapy to address the needs of her own child, who had been diagnosed with autism. HANDLE is a holistic approach that focuses on the individual's unique neurodevelopmental and learning challenges associated with central nervous system disorders.

Assessment

HANDLE includes a comprehensive assessment of a broad array of neurodevelopmental and learning challenges associated with central nervous system disorders. The assessment involves identifying the specific neurodevelopmental and learning challenges observed in the child. The therapy integrates persisting primary reflexes treatment, which involves the identification and treatment of primary reflexes that persist beyond their normal developmental period. The diagnosis is communicated to the parents, and the treatment plan is tailored to the specific neurodevelopmental and learning challenges observed in the child.

Treatment

The therapy is provided by trained professionals who create a supportive environment for the individual and offer a personalized program of specific activities and gentle bodywork to support neurological organization and function.

Providers

HANDLE (Holistic Approach to NeuroDevelopment and Learning Efficiency): Professionals interested in implementing HANDLE must undergo specialized training to become certified HANDLE practitioners. This training covers various aspects of neurodevelopmental support and specific HANDLE techniques. Upon completion of the training, individuals may pursue certification to practice HANDLE. For more information on HANDLE training, you can visit the official website of The HANDLE Institute (https://www.handle.org).

Blomberg Rhythmic Movement Training

History

Blomberg Rhythmic Movement Training (BRMT) was developed by Harald Blomberg, a Swedish chiropractor, in the 1970s. BRMT is based on the principles of rhythmic movement and the integration of primitive reflexes. The therapy aims to improve postural imbalance, muscle tone, and mobility issues through rhythmic exercises that integrate primitive reflexes, develop articulation and phonological abilities, and improve visual skills.

Assessment

BRMT includes a thorough assessment of the child's postural imbalance, muscle tone, and mobility issues. The assessment involves identifying postural imbalance, muscle tone, and mobility issues to guide the treatment. The therapy integrates persisting primary reflexes treatment, which involves the identification and treatment of primary reflexes that persist beyond their normal developmental period. The diagnosis is communicated to the parents, and the treatment plan is tailored to the specific neuromotor deficits observed in the child.

Treatment

The therapy, provided by trained professionals, includes rhythmic exercises that integrate primitive reflexes, develop articulation and phonological abilities, and improve visual skills.

Providers

Blomberg Rhythmic Movement Training (BRMT): BRMT training is designed for healthcare professionals, educators, and therapists who wish to incorporate BRMT into their practice. The training includes theoretical and practical components to ensure proficiency in applying BRMT techniques. Upon completion of the training, individuals may seek certification to practice BRMT. For more information on BRMT training, you can visit the official website of the BRMT International Association (https://www.blombergrmt.com).

These innovative neuromuscular treatment methods, rooted in developmental kinesiology, offer promising and effective approaches to address abnormal motor development and central nervous system disorders in children. The integration of these methods into pediatric rehabilitation programs represents a significant step forward in promoting functional recovery and improving the quality of life for children with neuromuscular disorders.

*Please note that the information provided is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice. Individuals seeking these treatment methods or related therapies should consult qualified healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and care.*