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

Arndt SW, Chandler LS, Sweeney JK, Sharkey MA, McElroy JJ

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

This study supports (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.

Pediatric Physical Therapy, 2008, 20(1), 11-22

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