The Role of the Vojta Method in Diagnosing and Enhancing Motor Skills in Preterm Infants: A Prospective Open-Label Controlled Study.

BACKGROUND The Vojta method is utilized for the early detection of abnormal psychomotor development in newborns and infants, particularly those born prematurely. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the Vojta method in enhancing spontaneous motor skills and reducing abnormal responses in prematurely born children. MATERIAL AND METHODS This prospective, open-label controlled study included 200 children divided into 3 groups: extremely premature (≤29 weeks, n=49), very premature (30-33 weeks, n=51), and late preterm (34-37 weeks, n=50) infants. A control group consisted of 50 full-term children undergoing rehabilitation for central nervous system coordination disorders. Diagnoses were conducted using the Vojta method within the first 6 months of life, followed by reexaminations at 3 and 6 months post-diagnosis to assess rehabilitation progress. RESULTS Initial examinations revealed significant differences among groups in several reflex tests, with a higher number of abnormal reactions in infants born before 34 weeks of gestation. Follow-up examinations demonstrated statistically significant improvements in all groups, with the most notable progress observed in children born after 34 weeks. Specifically, the Vojta reflex, traction test, Peiper-Isbert vertical suspension, and Collis' suspension tests all showed significant enhancements post-rehabilitation. CONCLUSIONS The Vojta method is a valuable tool for early diagnosis and intervention to address developmental delays among preterm and full-term infants. Tailoring interventions to individual needs and integrating advanced technologies can optimize its application, enhancing motor function maturation and improving the quality of life for at-risk infants.