Developed by a Czechoslovakian neurologist from the work of Fay (see under Patterning) and Kabat. It is based on intensive work on postures and pressure points that are claimed to "reprogram" some basic reflexes lost in the nervous system, and to lead to improvements in functioning. Includes the use of resistance against muscle action.
A review of 50 studies of motor intervention programmes, including Vojta, in 2002 found that in common with others there was no strong evidence for it in the published peer-reviewed studies that had been done so far. A small study in Japan in 2004 showed promise. At present it does not appear to be available in the UK.
Kanda T et al. Motor outcome differences between two groups of children with spastic diplegia who received different intensities of early onset physiotherapy followed for 5 years.
Brain and Development 2004 Mar, 26(2):118-26.
Siebes RC et al. Qualitative analysis of therapeutic motor intervention programmes for
children with cerebral palsy: an update. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology 2002, 44: 593–603.
