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Bobath Resources in the UK

Latest Evidence and Educational Materials

Welcome to BABTT's comprehensive hub for Bobath resources in the UK. As specialists in neurological rehabilitation, we are committed to sharing up-to-date, evidence-based information to support healthcare professionals working in the field of cerebral palsy and related conditions.

Here, you'll find a wealth of Bobath resources, including educational materials, research articles and opportunities for professional development within the UK and beyond.

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What Is Bobath? An Authoritative Introduction

Bobath resources are fundamental for therapists seeking effective approaches to managing movement and tone disorders in individuals with central nervous system lesions.

The Bobath Concept, also known as Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT), offers a problem-solving framework for understanding difficulties with postural control, movement against gravity and enhanced practice for those with cerebral palsy or following a stroke.

Developed in the mid-20th century, this therapy model underpins much of the specialisation and upskilling available for healthcare professionals interested in neurological rehabilitation resources across the UK.

What is Bobath?

 
 
 

Useful Links: Access Specialist Bobath Therapy Resources

 

Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research newsletters

​ Subscribe to receive CP Alliance Research news newsletters by email. These give an up to date list of abstracts from recent journals, including some ahead of publication.

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Can Child Research

​ The Canchild website disseminates research and information on outcome measures from McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.

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British Academy of Childhood Disability

​ Website of events, research, news and resources (including national policies) to promote quality clinical care for disabled children and young people and their families/carers.

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European Academy of Childhood Disability

​ An international not-for-profit association for anyone with a clinical and/or scientific interest in childhood-onset disabilities in Europe. The mission of the EACD is to promote research and education for the benefit of people with childhood-onset disabilities.

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Knowledge Hub – IAACD

​ TIAACD mission is to improve the health and well-being of children, youth and adults with childhood-onset disabilities around the globe.

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Cerebral Palsy Cymru

​ A national centre of excellence for families in Wales with children who have cerebral palsy.

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Cerebral Palsy Scotland

​ A centre for therapy, support and information for people with cerebral palsy and their families.


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National Bobath Cerebral Palsy Centre

 A specialist treatment and training centre in Watford, Hertfordshire and a charity dedicated to supporting children and families living with cerebral palsy and similar neurological conditions.

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Recent Research Studies: Staying Updated with Evidence-Based Bobath Practice

At BABTT, we continuously review recent Bobath research articles and developments in neurological rehabilitation. As a professional community in the UK, we focus on advances that impact clinical outcomes, upskilling therapists and providing real-world, practical insights. Below, we outline key findings from selected studies, keeping our members informed and connected to the latest trends in Bobath resources.

Quality Appraisal of Systematic Reviews of Interventions for Children with Cerebral Palsy

​ A significant systematic review published in Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology (Nov 2021) assessed the reliability of existing reviews on interventions for children with cerebral palsy. The results highlight that confidence in the conclusions of 88% of systematic reviews was critically low, regardless of the trial design, population studied or intervention type. The inclusion of meta-analyses did not improve confidence levels, and although the number of systematic reviews has grown in recent years, their methodological quality remains stagnant. These findings emphasise the need for enhanced rigour and ongoing specialisation in evidence-based practice within the Bobath and wider neurological rehabilitation community.

Read the full article: Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, Nov 2021

Efficacy of a Hip Brace for Hip Displacement in Children With Cerebral Palsy

​ A research study published in JAMA Network Open (November 2022) demonstrates that a newly developed hip brace can serve as a practical, nonsurgical treatment option to prevent hip displacement in children with nonambulatory cerebral palsy. This advance adds to the growing pool of Bobath resources aimed at providing less invasive, evidence-based interventions for clinicians and families in the UK.

Read the findings: JAMA Network Open, Nov 2022

Dystonia in Individuals with Spastic Cerebral Palsy and Isolated Periventricular Leukomalacia

​ A recent publication in Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology (Jan 2023) reveals that individuals with spastic cerebral palsy and isolated periventricular leukomalacia commonly display dystonia, affecting areas such as the fingers and hip adductors. These findings are relevant for UK clinicians using Bobath resources to inform specific treatment strategies for dystonia within this group.

Full article: Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, Jan 2023

Core Outcomes for Lower Limb Orthopaedic Surgery in Children with Cerebral Palsy

​ This international consensus study identified eight core outcome domains to be measured in clinical research regarding lower limb surgery for children with cerebral palsy. Key stakeholders found that pain management, balance and the independence of the child were highly important, leading to six vital contextual factors influencing surgical decisions. Such findings shape Bobath resources and evidence-based orthopaedic care for therapists in the UK.

Read more: Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, Feb 2023

Mirror Movements and Brain Pathology in Unilateral Cerebral Palsy

​ A Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology study (Feb 2023) indicates that the type of brain lesion in children with unilateral cerebral palsy may predict distinct mirror movement patterns. The highest observable score in tested tasks might correspond to corticospinal tract connectivity, offering practical guidance for UK therapists in their use of Bobath resources to support enhanced assessment and treatment.

Access the research: Read Article

A novel magnetic resonance imaging-based scoring system to predict outcome in neonates born preterm with intraventricular haemorrhage

​ Katharina Goeral's 2022 research, published in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology, introduces a comprehensive MRI scoring system that considers the severity and location of brain damage in preterm neonates with intraventricular haemorrhage. This tool offers UK neurologists and therapists a more precise approach to predicting outcomes, directly supporting professional development and specialisation in neonatal neurological rehabilitation.

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Long-Term Effects of Spasticity Treatment for Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

​ Long-term research (MacWilliams, 2022) suggests untreated spasticity does not result in significant impairments in early adulthood at the levels of pathophysiology, function or quality of life. Such findings provoke discussion and highlight the importance of continued evidence-based inquiry within the Bobath community, providing ongoing context for the application of the Bobath concept and resources in the UK.

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FAQS

 

What types of Bobath resources are available for members?

Members can access Bobath research articles, educational links, clinical studies, downloadable materials, professional development opportunities and UK event listings.

Can I access Bobath research papers through BABTT?

Yes, BABTT provides summaries and direct links to key Bobath research papers and systematic reviews relevant to cerebral palsy and neurological rehabilitation.

Are there free Bobath learning materials for non-members?

Non-members can access selected Bobath resources such as external research links, newsletters, and informative articles from our resources section.

How can I contribute research or articles to the BABTT resource section?

You may contact BABTT directly to discuss submitting your research, articles or educational resources for inclusion on our Resources page.

Do you provide links to external Bobath training or publications?

Yes, the resources section includes links to Bobath training centres, international research sites, and recommended publications for professional learning.

How can I stay updated with new Bobath research or guidelines?

Subscribe to newsletters, follow BABTT events, and revisit the resources page for regular updates on Bobath research, events and clinical guidelines.

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Take the Next Step: Become a BABTT Member

Ready to enhance your expertise with a recognised professional membership for therapists? Join BABTT today for access to our specialist network and continuous learning opportunities. Contact us or call us on 0141 352 5000 for more details about joining or renewing your BABTT membership. Let's shape the future of Bobath therapy together.

If you're interested in membership, training, or have questions contact us on:

 enquiries@babtt.com 

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