Purpose: In this study, the effect of the Vojta approach on neck stability and static balance in children with hypotonia was studied.
Methods: Seventeen children with hypotonia were randomly divided into the Vojta approach group (n=9) and the general physical therapy group (n=8). Each group was applied intervention for 30 minutes per session, 3 times a week, for a total of 4 weeks. Ultrasonography was used to measure deep neck flexor muscle thickness, craniovertebral angle (CVA) to measure neck alignment along the spine segment, and Balancia software program to measure static balance.
Results: In the Vojta approach group, the deep neck flexor muscle thickness was significantly increased (P<0.05), and the CVA was significantly improved (P<0.05). In addition, path area among static balance was significantly improved (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The Vojta approach can be suggested as an effective intervention method for improving neck stability and static balance in children with hypotonia.
Keywords: Craniovertebral angle; Deep neck flexor muscle; Hypotonia; Static balance; Vojta approach.