According to the Rood approach, which stability pattern should be facilitated first for a child with hypotonicity?

The Rood approach emphasizes facilitating muscular stability patterns that are foundational for motor development, especially in individuals with hypotonicity. Hypotonicity, or low muscle tone, can impair the ability to maintain postural control and balance during movement. In this context, the development of stability starts from the proximal to distal regions of the body.

Focusing on neck co-contraction as the first stability pattern is essential because the neck serves as a critical connector for head control, which is foundational in establishing overall postural control. By encouraging neck co-contraction, you are helping the child achieve better head and trunk control, which inherently supports other movements and stability throughout the body.

Once the stability of the neck is established, it becomes easier to progress to shoulder, hip, and knee stability, as the head and neck alignment directly influence the ability to control the upper and lower body. This hierarchical approach ensures that the foundational elements of posture are secured before addressing more complex movements and stability patterns.