THE ROLE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY IN THE DELAY OF MOTOR DEVELOPMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD

Abstract

Motor development refers to the progression of motor skills in children, from simple to more complex movements. It involves the coordination of muscles and nerves to perform activities such as crawling, sitting, walking, and running. Proper stimulation and early interventions are essential for healthy motor development. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of delayed motor development, using specific techniques to stimulate motor and sensorimotor skills. Interventions such as kinesiotherapy and proprioceptive exercises help improve postural control and motor coordination. Continuous and personalised monitoring is essential to promote gradual and significant progress. This clinical case study was conducted at the Physical Therapy Teaching and Research Clinic of the Iguaçu University. This is a descriptive, analytical and qualitative study, which used data obtained through anamnesis and physical evaluation to apply proprioceptive and kinesiotherapeutic resources in sensorimotor stimulation and postural control of the patient. The results were positive, with the range of trunk control, position of four supports and ability to crawl. It is concluded that the physical therapy protocol adopted promoted gradual improvements in motor development, emphasizing the importance of continuity of stimulation and treatment.