What is Bobath? A survey of UK stroke physiotherapists’ perceptions of
the content of the Bobath concept to treat postural control and mobility
problems after stroke

Tyson, S; Connell, L; Busse, ME; Lennon, S

Abstract

Objective. The aim of this study was to identify which interventions used to treat postural control and mobility are
considered part of the Bobath concept (BC).
Design. Hospital-based UK stroke physiotherapists identified interventions which they perceived to be part of the BC from
a pre-published list of interventions used to treat postural control and mobility problems. Interventions that 475% of
participants felt were part of the BC were classified as ‘definitely Bobath’. Interventions that 525% felt were part of the BC
were classified as ‘definitely not Bobath’. Other interventions were classified as ‘unsure’; those indentified by 50–74% of
participants as part of the BC were classified as ‘probably Bobath’ and those indentified 26–49% were classified as ‘probably
not Bobath’.
Results. Seventy-four physiotherapists from 33 hospitals participated. Facilitation, mobilizations and practicing components
of activities were most strongly associated with the BC. Exercise and the use of equipment were identified as ‘not’ or
‘probably not Bobath’. There was uncertainty about practicing activities, teaching patients and carers and arranging
independent practice.
Conclusions. UK stroke physiotherapists perceive that the BC involves interventions that focus on facilitating movement,
mobilization, practicing components of activities and some whole activities. Their views about what is not part of the BC and
the areas where they are uncertain contrast with British and international teachers of the BC. Consequently, it was not
possible to define a ‘typical package’ of treatment for postural control and mobility that represents the BC. Future research
into the BC should focus on the effectiveness of specific, well-defined interventions.

Citation

problems after stroke. Disability and Rehabilitation, 31(6), 448-457. https://doi.org/10.1080/09638280802103621

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Jan 1, 2009
• Deposit Date: Mar 23, 2010
• Journal: Disability and Rehabilitation
• Print ISSN: 0963-8288
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 31
• Issue: 6
• Pages: 448-457
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/09638280802103621
• Keywords: Bobath Concept, physiotherapy, stroke, postural control, balance
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/09638280802103621