The Hypotonic Child: Treatment for Postural Control, Endurance, Strength, and Sensory Organization

Regi Boehme, a noted instructor of Neuro-Developmental Treatment (NDT), offers practical treatment ideas in this 55-page revised edition of her workshop manual. This valuable, easy-to-use reference tool gives therapists an understandable overview of basic problems of low tone. The material is designed to support the clinician in assessment and treatment of children who exhibit insufficient muscle tone to sustain postural control against gravity. Postural control and functional movement are focal points of NDT, a therapeutic approach developed in 1942 for the management of cerebral palsy by physiotherapist Berta Bobath and physician Karl Bobath. Since this material is based on the work of the Bobaths, a review of the principles of NDT is in order. This text also offers suggestions to improve postural control, movement, and function when hypotonicity is a presenting problem. The NDT approach is included in the illustrated treatment rationale. Clear line drawings and descriptions will help clinicians understand conditions and treatment techniques. This hands-on resource includes:

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early diagnostic signs

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quality of postural tone and its impact on movement

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principles of NDT and its relationship to hypotonicity

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effective sensory-motor input

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suggestions for carryover care at home