Vojta Therapy
Unlock your body's natural movement potential with our specialised Vojta therapy. Learn how this innovative approach can help you or your loved ones achieve better posture and mobility.
What is Vojta therapy?
Vojta therapy, also known as reflex locomotion therapy, is a specialised neurophysiological treatment designed to improve movement and posture by communicating directly with the central nervous system (CNS). Developed in the 1960s by Dr. Václav Vojta, a neurologist, the therapy is based on the discovery that human movement patterns are genetically predetermined and stored in the brain. When these natural patterns are blocked due to injury or developmental issues, Vojta therapy serves as a tool to "unlock" or reactivate them.
For infants and children
A primary intervention for children at risk of cerebral palsy or those with central hypotonia (low muscle tone) to accelerate the acquisition of motor milestones like crawling and sitting. It is a "gold standard" for premature babies, as it safely improves breathing patterns.
For adults with neurological conditions
For those living with multiple sclerosis (MS), Cerebral Palsy, Parkinson's , the therapy has been shown to significantly improve balance and gait speed. In early stroke rehabilitation, it has proven effective in helping patients regain postural control and arm function.
For adults with orthopaedic issues
Research indicates it can be more efficient than standard therapy for reducing pain and improving strength in conditions like subacromial impingement syndrome (shoulder pain) and chronic low back pain.
Experience the Mexican Physio difference
Our commitment to personalised care and effective treatment methods sets us apart. Discover why patients choose Mexican Physio for their Vojta therapy journey.
How Vojta therapy works
The therapy operates on a "bottom-up" approach, meaning it uses physical stimulation of the body to influence the activity of the brain. Unlike traditional exercises where you might practice a specific task like reaching for an object, Vojta therapy triggers automatic, involuntary muscle responses.
A trained therapist applies targeted, sustained pressure to specific activation zones on the body, such as the chest, ribs, heels, or shoulder blades. This tactile input travels to the brain and triggers coordinated movement complexes known as "innate patterns". These responses include the lengthening of the spine, the centring of joints, and the activation of deep stabilising muscles in the trunk. The therapy is performed in three primary starting positions: lying on the back (reflex rolling), lying on the side, and lying on the stomach (reflex creeping).
Your Vojta therapy journey
A typical session lasts approximately 20 to 45 minutes. Because the central nervous system requires repeated "reminders" to maintain these new pathways, the therapy is often most effective when integrated into a home programme. Therapists frequently train parents or caregivers to perform the stimulation daily, which increases the dosage and improves long-term results.
A common concern for parents of infants is that babies often cry during treatment. The sources clarify that this is generally an expression of the infant’s unwillingness to perform intense physical effort rather than a sign of pain or stress. Clinical studies measuring cortisol levels and pain scales have confirmed that the therapy is safe and non-stressful, even for very vulnerable premature infants. In summary, Vojta therapy works by recalibrating the body's internal control system. It is not just a set of exercises, but a neurophysiological intervention that builds the foundational postural control necessary for improved movement.
