Article

A theoretical framework can help physiotherapists understand and promote recovery
of function in children and youth with acquired brain injuries (ABI).
Physiotherapy interventions for this population have traditionally been based in
hierarchical-maturational theories of motor development emphasizing the role of
the central nervous system (CNS) in controlling motor behaviour. In contrast,
Dynamic Systems Theory (DST) views movement as resulting from the interaction of
many subsystems within the individual, features of the functional task to be
accomplished, and the environmental context in which the movement takes place.
DST is now a predominant theoretical framework in pediatric physiotherapy. The
purpose of this article is to describe how DST can be used to understand and
promote recovery of function after pediatric ABI. A DST-based approach for
children and youth with ABI does not treat the impaired CNS in isolation but
rather emphasizes the role of all subsystems, including the family and the
environment, in influencing recovery. The emphasis is on exploration, problem
solving, and practice of functional tasks. A case scenario provides practical
recommendations for the use of DST to inform physiotherapy interventions and
clinical decision making in the acute phase of recovery from ABI. Future research
is required to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions based in this
theoretical framework.

Langue : ANGLAIS