Affiliations: [a]
Wingate University, Wingate, NC, USA
| [b]
Pediatric Therapy Center, Houston, TX, USA
Correspondence:
[*]
Address for correspondence: Mary Scott Swiggum PT, PhD, Associate Professor Wingate University, PO Box 159, Wingate, NC 28174, USA. Tel.: +1 (704) 233 8701, Fax: +1 (704) 233 8673; E-mail: m.swiggum@wingate.edu.
Abstract: BACKGROUND:Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT) currently embraces evidence-based concepts of motor control, motor learning and neuroplasticity. However, most research has been performed on outdated models of NDT. OBJECTIVE:This case series examines the short- and long-term outcomes of a three-week intensive using contemporary NDT interventions. METHODS:Six children, 2–10 years old with neurologic disorders and Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels I-III participated in the intervention. The three-week intensive included 60 minutes of physical, occupational and speech therapy 3–5 times weekly. RESULTS:All children demonstrated Gross Motor Function Measure-66 gains of medium to large effect sizes. These gains were maintained or improved upon 3 months’ post conclusion of the intensive intervention. CONCLUSIONS:This study supports emerging research regarding the effectiveness of intensive intervention and further study of current NDT interventions.
