Effects of a neurodevelopmental treatment-based trunk protocol for infants with posture and movement dysfunction

Pediatr Phys Ther. 2008 Spring;20(1):11-22. doi: 10.1097/PEP.0b013e31815e8595.

Abstract

Purpose: This study was used to evaluate the efficacy of a neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT)-based sequenced trunk activation protocol for change in gross motor function of infants aged 4 to 12 months with posture and movement dysfunction. Infants who received a dynamic co-activation trunk protocol were compared with a control group who received a parent-infant interaction and play protocol.

Method: A repeated measures randomized block design was used. A masked reliable examiner assessed infants before, immediately after, and 3 weeks after intervention using the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM).

Results: The NDT-based protocol group made significantly (P = 0.048) more progress than the control group from pretest to posttest.

Conclusions: Cautious support was found for (1) sequenced, dynamic trunk co-activation intervention compared to generalized infant play; (2) high-frequency, short-term, task-specific intervention; and (3) direct service by NDT-trained pediatric therapists specializing in infant intervention.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Protocols*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Motor Activity
  • Motor Skills Disorders / therapy*
  • Physical Therapy Modalities*
  • Play and Playthings
  • Posture
  • Recovery of Function
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Treatment Outcome