ABRADIMENE

USING THE INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATION OF FUNCTIONING, DISABILITY AND HEALTH (ICF) TO ENHANCE THE BOBATH APPROACH

Sheena Irwin-Carruthers, M.Sc. Physiotherapy, Dip. Physio. Educ.

RESUME

This paper explores some of the factors which influence our current practice in the assessment and treatment of individuals with lesions of the central nervous system.  In particular it looks at some of the ways in which the ICF can be used to enhance assessment, treatment planning and intervention.  The approach emphasizes the identification of participation restrictions as the primary focus of assessment.  Analysis of the functional activities which are needed to overcome these restrictions follows.  Only then are the specific underlying impairments which prevent function analysed.  Goal-setting is patient-centred and focused on the person’s specific needs for participation in different life-situations.

The concept of outcome-based rehabilitation is introduced, with a simple method of scoring outcome levels.

The paper is illustrated by case reports covering assessment, treatment planning and implementation for adults and children with different disabilities.