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Effects of a neurodevelopmental treatment-based trunk protocol for infants with posture and movement dysfunction
Sherry W Arndt1, Lynette S Chandler, Jane K Sweeney
1Ohana Physical Therapy, 1875 Kalanianaole Street #505, Hilo, HI 96720, USA. sherrypt1@earthlink.net
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.
