Bobath Physiotherapy
General overview
This concept of rehabilitation was developed in the 1940s thanks to the work and research of Mrs. BOBATH, physiotherapist, and her husband, a neurologist.
This method is interdisciplinary, so much so that on the Bobath France website one can read that Bobath is more a "philosophy" than a method: "BOBATH is a school of the quality of the gesture".
Main objectives of the method
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The BOBATH method is based on two essential points: tonic regulation (inhibition of spasticity, reinforcement or regulation of tone), in order to improve postural tone in particular, and facilitation of motor patterns in order to bring the child's gestures closer to the norm.
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When these patterns have been performed once, the therapist repeats them many times, and in very different settings, so that the gestures become automatic and the child or adolescent is able to use them again in everyday life. The aim of this method is for the child to acquire a maximum of autonomy through the adaptation of his movements.
Specificities of the method
The BOBATH Therapist considers the child in his or her global environment, and seeks to understand before beginning to work with him or her the reasons for the way in which he or she performs each gesture.
The work on tonic regulation is carried out using different proprioception techniques, which usually involve rehabilitation equipment (mat, ball, roller, etc.). Games are used to arouse the child's interest and involvement in the sessions. The creation of new motor patterns and therefore new ways of performing gestures is done using key points of the body.
Who is this method for ?
BOBATH is used to treat babies, children, adolescents and adults with cerebral palsy and other neuro-motor development disorders. It can also help people who have had a stroke at a later age.
Scientific references
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Evaluation of the functional effects of effects of a course of Bobath therapy in children with cerebral palsy: a preliminary study (lien : https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Evaluation-of-the-functional-effects-of-a-course-of-Knox-Evans/0c004759c8d0e9e6ca2801fddeafe9dff3215876)
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A study conducted on a dozen children shows that Bobath therapy has helped them to progress in their motor development and their ability to take care of themselves.
To know more about the topic
Link to the Bobath France website: http://www.bobath-france.fr/bobath/concept-bobath
Bobath Children Europe Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/958302760865634/
Bobath Therapist Directory: http://www.bobath-france.fr/bobath/therapeute-pres-de-chez-vous
Any remarks or comments ?
This work is based on a collaborative approach to sharing research and family experience.
If you have any comments, suggestions for modifications or corrections or clarifications to make, please let us know by email at contact@leneurogroupe.org