The Bobath Concept

The Bobath Concept is a comprehensive and individualized therapeutic approach grounded in the latest knowledge in neuroscience and movement science. Its primary goal is to optimize motor performance and functional potential in individuals affected by neurological disorders.
The concept provides guidelines for analyzing functional movement based on the understanding that a neurological lesion affects the entire person, not only the directly involved side. Therapeutic intervention focuses on restoring normal movement and minimizing compensatory or abnormal patterns, while recognizing that a patient’s movement problems are influenced by experiences both prior to and following the onset of neurological impairment. The concept emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary, 24-hour care to enhance the individual’s activity and participation.

In the Bobath Concept, functional movement analysis considers the role of sensory information in the interaction between postural control, selective movement, and cognitive/perceptual processes. Control of the head and trunk is regarded as equally essential as control of the upper and lower limbs. The quality of movement is assessed in relation to the integration of postural control and selective movement, active alignment of body segments, and the ability to perceive, process, and respond to sensory input.

Facilitation in the Bobath Concept is a practical skill and an active process aimed at influencing sensory input through therapeutic handling, verbal guidance, and environmental adaptation. The patient’s response to facilitation provides key information in the process of clinical reasoning.

Developing a revised definition of the Bobath concept: Phase
three. Vaughan-Graham J, Cheryl C, Holland A, Michielsen M, Magri A, Suzuki M, Brooks D. Physiother Res Int. 2019 Dec 30:e1832.