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


METHODS
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.
Arndt
Sherry W
SW
Ohana Physical Therapy, 1875 Kalanianaole Street #505, Hilo, HI 96720, USA. sherrypt1@earthlink.net
Chandler
Lynette S
LS
Sweeney
Jane K
JK
Sharkey
Mary Ann
MA
McElroy
Jan Johnson
JJ
D002985:Clinical Protocols; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity; D019957:Motor Skills Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D010988:Play and Playthings; D011187:Posture; D020127:Recovery of Function; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D016896:Treatment Outcome