A modern interpretation of the Rood Approach

Abstract

The Rood Approach for the treatment of central nervous system disorders was developed by Margaret Rood in the 1950s. Rood's technique can be categorized as one of facilitation and inhibition of movement. It is one of several of the neurophysiological Approaches which developed at that time and is centered upon four basic concepts to consider during treatment: duality, the ontogenetic sequence, manipulation of the autonomic nervous system and the level of excitability of the anterior horn cell.

As with the other neurophysiological Approaches (notably Bobath, PNF and Brunnstrom), Rood's rationale for treatment has been criticized for the naiveté of its physiological rationale. Although this criticism is justified, it does not mean that the techniques are without value. This paper includes a brief explanation of Rood's rationale for treatment and a review of the literature which highlights the benefits and limitations of many aspects of this approach. It can be seen that several of the basic concepts are valid and viable within current neuroscientific thinking. The conclusion is that the Rood Approach is a modular model, and as such is capable of adapting to advancing knowledge.

Keywords:

• NEUROFACILITATION
• ROOD
• NEUROPHYSIOLOGY
• TREATMENT RATIONALE
• SENSORY STIMULATION
• PHYSIOTHERAPY
• STROKE REHABILITATION