Stimulus zones of Vojta method and trunk control in children with spastic-type cerebral palsy: A quasi-experimental pilot study.

Background: Vojta method improves motor function by inducing a response by pressing the stimulus zones.

Purpose: To determine the effect of the stimulus zones on trunk muscle thickness, trunk control, trunk angle, and gross motor function in children with spastic-type cerebral palsy.

Methods: A quasi-experimental pilot study was conducted with 19 children with spastic-type cerebral palsy divided into two groups: Vojta method group (n = 10) and general physical therapy group (n = 9). Each group underwent a 6-week intervention, and assessments were conducted to evaluate abdominal muscle thickness, trunk control, trunk angle, and gross motor function.

Results: In the Vojta method group, the change rate in the thickness of the internal oblique and transversus abdominis increased significantly within the group (P < 0.05) and the difference (post-pre) of the transversus abdominis was higher (P < 0.05). The trunk angle increased significantly within the group when thoracic 7 and 11, lumbar 3, and sacrum 1 were supported (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference in trunk angle difference (post-pre) between groups when thoracic 11 and sacrum 1 were supported (P < 0.05). Segmental assessment of trunk control and gross motor function measure-88 scores were significantly increased within the group in all groups (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: The stimulus zones of the Vojta method could improve trunk control in children with spastic-type cerebral palsy through intra-abdominal pressure and anti-gravity movement.