Date of Award
2022
Document Type
Scholarly Project
Degree Name
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)
Department
Physical Therapy
First Advisor
Mohamed Elhamadany
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Developmental delay is when a child does not reach a developmental milestone by the expected age. Low tone is when there is poor muscle strength. This case study evaluates the effectiveness of conservative physical therapy care as a treatment for low tone and developmental delay. The study also discusses the patient’s outcomes based on the chosen interventions. These results can be used to further understand the most efficacious interventions for low tone and developmental delay treatment.
Case Description: The patient was a 9-month-old male referred by his primary care provider for low tone and developmental delay.
Interventions: The therapy provided emphasized the use of therapeutic activities. With the age of the patient, interventions were focused on getting the patient to interact with the environment and peers, while also having fun.
Outcomes: Throughout the course of treatment, the patient gained the ability to transition from supine to sit with bilateral hand-held assist with proper chin tuck activation; maintain quadruped with moderate assistance for 10+ seconds; and sitting for 30+ seconds with MIA at hips all of which increased the patient’s functional mobility.
Discussion: The patient responded well to the treatment with many short-term goals being met. Further research into the most effective conservative treatment for low tone and developmental delay in the pediatric population continues to be necessary.
Recommended Citation
Braaten, Ana, "Outpatient Physical Therapy Management of a Patient with Low Tone and Developmental Delay: A Case Study" (2022). Physical Therapy Scholarly Projects. 781.
https://commons.und.edu/pt-grad/781