Neurodevelopmental Treatment for Sitting Balance in Microcephaly: A Case Report

Abstrak

Introduction: Microcephaly often leads to delayed gross motor development, including poor head control, low trunk stability, and unintegrated primitive reflexes. 
Objective: This case report aimed to describe the effects of Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) on sitting balance and gross motor function in a child with microcephaly.
Methods: A 12-month-old male patient was treated at the Medical Rehabilitation Clinic, Muhammadiyah Hospital Lamongan. NDT sessions were conducted once weekly for four weeks, each lasting 30–45 minutes, focusing on head control, trunk stability, and sitting balance using a gym ball. Techniques included visual stimulation, handling at key points of control, and transitional position training. Outcome measures included the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM), head circumference, and Spinal Galant reflex assessment.
Results: GMFM dimension A scores increased from 25.4% to 86%, and dimension B from 30% to 61%. The Spinal Galant reflex, initially positive, became negative after therapy. Head circumference remained unchanged at 41 cm. Clinically, the patient showed improved head-lifting ability, the capacity to sit with minimal assistance, and greater trunk stability.
Conclusion: NDT improved gross motor function in a child with microcephaly, particularly head control, trunk stability, and sitting balance. Active family involvement in home exercises supported therapy success, suggesting that collaborative management between physiotherapists and families should be encouraged for similar cases.