The Bobath Approach was pioneered and developed by Dr Karel and Mrs Berta Bobath in the 1940s. In an interview almost twenty years ago, Dr Bobath explained their philosophy as : "A whole new way of thinking, observing, interpreting what the patient is doing, then adjusting what we do in the way of techniques- to see and feel what is necessary, possible for them to achieve. We do not teach movements, we make them possible" (Bobath, 1981).



Bobath's view was revolutionary when it was introduced as conventional treatment at that time for Neurological Conditions often involved surgery and leg braces or calipers. Neurological Therapy based on fundamental principles of the approach is now successfully practiced throughout the world. It is both wholistic and practical; and makes use of normal daily life activities (or parts of them) rather than "un-natural exercises" to increase and maintain abilities.

It has transformed treatment for children and adults with physical disability. Although the Bobath Approach primarily used for people who have disabilities caused by stroke or cerebral palsy it is also successfully used for patients who have spinal injuries.

The main aim of Bobath is to encourage and increase the client's ability to move and function in as normal a way as possible. By treating patients in a way that promotes normal muscle activity improvements are gained in posture, movement and activities of daily life in a way that is as normal possible.

This may involve the Neurological Physiotherapist stretching muscles where they are overly energised (spasticity) or working to strengthen muscles that are weak so that normal function is more possible.

Bobath is also a strongly humanistic approach rather than working ON the client it is important to work WITH the client. Again quoting from Dr Bobath "unless you stimulate or activate your patient in the way in which new activities are possible, you have done nothing at all. So the handling techniques as such are only the very first step in treatment, though they are very important" (Bobath, 1965).

More normal movements cannot be obtained if the client stays in a few restricted positions and moves only in a limited or disordered way. The aim of Neurological Physiotherapy using the Bobath Approach is to help the client to change their abnormal postures and movements so that they are able to comfortably adapt to their environment and develop a better quality of functional skills.

In summary, the Bobath Approach believes that each client has the potential for improved function and that Neurological Physiotherapists need to work with their clients doing "what works the best".