What is Bobath?

Bobath concept is a type of physiotherapy treatment that aims to improve movement and mobility in patients with central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) damage. Many physiotherapists use the Bobath concept in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological conditions to aid sensory and motor pathways, and facilitate normal movement and motor control.

The Bobath concept continues to evolve and change in its application to various neurological conditions. New research and theories are being successfully integrated into the therapeutic approach of this modality.

This type of therapy can only be administered by trained and certified physical therapists.

How Bobath works?

The Bobath concept is based on the brain's ability to adapt to change that has occurred, to reorganize and recover after neurological damage.

It is based on several principles that include:

Retraining to normal movement patterns.

Focusing on the quality of movement performed.

Normalizing muscle tone to facilitate active movement.

Stimulating correct positioning of the body in space.

Not allowing compensatory and mislearned movements to be used.

Encourages maximum possible functional recovery, thereby improving quality of life.

Why is it so effective?

With the Bobath concept, physical therapists encourage the patient to move in the most normal and energy efficient way, preventing poor movement patterns from occurring, thereby achieving:

Normalization of muscle tone

Restoration of motor control

Facilitating movements that are easy to perform, purposeful and precise

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Improving posture

Relaxation of the musculature thereby reducing spasm and the occurrence of contractures

Improved of activities of daily routine

Increasing the level of independence

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Realising maximum recovery potential

At the Rego Robotic Rehabilitation Centre. Bobath therapy is used in conjunction with other treatment modalities to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. Each person with a neurological condition* has different deficits and physiotherapy treatment should be tailored to individual needs and goals. This helps physiotherapists to develop and support the maximum recovery potential for their patients.