Understanding the Bobath Concept
What is Bobath?
The Bobath concept is an inclusive, individualised therapeutic approach to optimise movement recovery and potential for persons with neurological conditions. Physiotherapists trained in Bobath use a problem-solving, hands-on approach to improve movement quality and function based on the understanding that the brain can adapt (neuroplasticity) to regain movement patterns/skills in the setting of neurological damage.
What is Required to be a Bobath Trained Therapist?
To use the title “Bobath Trained” or “Bobath Therapist” you need to have completed an initial 3-week basic Bobath training course and then have subsequently completed a minimum of two advanced courses.
How Does the Bobath Concept Work in Practice?
Therapy based on the Bobath concept focuses on normalising abnormal movement patterns and retraining the brain to control muscles and limbs more effectively. It does not focus on simply strengthening muscles; instead, it aims to improve overall movement and functionality.
Therapists use a combination of hands-on input and careful consideration of positioning/environmental set up to optimise movement performance. This may include:
Facilitation (hands on guidance) of movement to help the person explore different movement patterns with the goal of optimising the strategies they are using
Tactile input (mobilisation/sensory stimulation/support) to increase the sensory feedback being received by the brain. This aims to improve body schema (awareness) which is crucial for balance and coordination of movement
Awareness of other sensory information (such as vision/hearing/proprioception) that can influence movement and use of environmental cues/equipment to optimise this (for example using a high plinth next to someone with poor midline awareness to assist them to orientate more appropriately to their environment)
Addressing areas of muscle and/or joint stiffness and tightness (common after a neurological damage)
A focus not just on task performance but on the quality of movement underpinning the activity
Improving balance and coordination by working on muscle control/patterns to help patients maintain better posture and stability
Use of different postures and transitions between these (such a lying, sitting, standing) to provide support or challenge as required to best optimise performance of certain movements
Incorporating movements into functional tasks to work towards the person’s individual goals
Who Can Benefit from Bobath Therapy?
Bobath therapy can be beneficial for anyone who has experienced a neurological event or has a condition affecting their motor control.
Whether someone is in the early stages of recovery or has been living with a neurological condition for years, therapy based on the Bobath concept can offer individualised assessment and support to work towards their functional goals.