Activity-based therapy
The activity-based therapy program (ABT) is an individualized approach based on the person’s specific needs. The ABT is based on various therapeutic traditions and scientific concepts developed over the last twenty years. More specifically the neuroscience research has highlighted the role of physical and cognitive activity in brain plasticity and functional recovery after stroke, spinal cord injury, other neurological conditions, pain management and mental health.
This patient-centered approach has been used by Neuro-Concept for over 10 years, and has proven its worth in a large number of patients. Neuro-Concept’s therapists assess each patient’s abilities and challenges in order to design a tailored treatment program. The aim is to help people regain their functional abilities and improve their quality of life through active participation in their rehabilitation and training. By stimulating paralyzed or hemiparetic body parts during activities, therapists stimulate the neuroplasticity of the central nervous and muscular systems, as well as cognitive resources. At Neuro-Concept, success is based on two key factors: the integration of technologies and multidisciplinary interventions of our experts (physiotherapist, occupational therapist, kinesiologist, massage therapist, physiatrist, speech therapist).
Many patients have seen improvements:
– On a physical level: improved strength, mobility and endurance, less pain
– Occupational: acquisition or reacquisition of functional skills (communication, daily management and independence)
– Cognitive and mental health: reinforcement of essential cognitive functions, reduction in fatigue, anxiety or depression.
Strategies and techniques used by the Neuro-Concept team :
– Individualized treatment programs
– Use of innovative equipment and technologies
– Integration of activity into the patient’s daily life
– Use of activity to promote functional independance and social participation
Patients expressed high satisfaction with activity-based therapy, reporting increased motivation, self-esteem and quality of life. In many cases, the improvements observed following activity-based therapy were maintained over the long term, demonstrating the effectiveness and durability of this approach.
Added value: it is possible to use virtual reality and a home application to increase activity at lower cost in the comfort of your own home.
Foundations of activity-based therapy :
1-Concept of Human Activity: At the heart of activity-based therapy is the recognition of the fundamental importance of human activity in daily life. Physical, cognitive and social activities play a crucial role in maintaining health and well-being, as well as in rehabilitation after illness, injury or disability.
2-Behavioral Learning Theory: Activity-based therapy is influenced by the principles of behavioral learning, which emphasize behavior modification through active engagement in specific activities. Rewards and positive reinforcement are often used to encourage participation and progress.
3-Patient-centered approach: This form of therapy is intrinsically patient-centered, recognizing that each individual’s needs, goals and preferences are unique. Treatment programs are therefore individually designed to meet the specific needs of each patient, taking into account their medical condition, level of functioning and rehabilitation goals.
4-Promoting Autonomy and Independence: A major aim of activity-based therapy is to promote autonomy and independence in individuals. By encouraging engagement in meaningful, functional activities, therapists aim to build self-confidence and the skills needed to effectively manage the challenges of daily life.
5-Integration of Prevention and Health Promotion: In addition to rehabilitation after illness or injury, activity-based therapy also aims to prevent future health problems and promote a healthy lifestyle. This can include activities to improve physical fitness, reduce stress and promote emotional and social well-being.
6- Using Intrinsic Motivation: Rather than focusing solely on external rewards, activity-based therapy seeks to cultivate individuals’ intrinsic motivation by helping them identify and pursue activities that are intrinsically rewarding and meaningful to them.
By combining these fundamental principles, activity-based therapy offers a holistic, individualized approach to rehabilitating and promoting the well-being of individuals.
Lee CY, Howe TH. Effectiveness of Activity-Based Task-Oriented Training on Upper Extremity Recovery for Adults With Stroke: A Systematic Review. Am J Occup Ther. 2024 Mar 1;78(2):7802180070. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2024.050391. PMID: 38393992.
Lourida et al. Activity interventions to improve the experience of care in hospital for people living with dementia: a systematic review. BMC Geriatr. 2020 Apr 10;20(1):131. doi: 10.1186/s12877-020-01534-7. PMID: 32272890; PMCID: PMC7146899.
Behrman, Andrea L. PT, PhD, FAPTA; Ardolino, Elizabeth M. PT, PhD; Harkema, Susan J. PhD. Activity-Based Therapy: From Basic Science to Clinical Application for Recovery After Spinal Cord Injury. Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy 41():p S39-S45, July 2017. | DOI: 10.1097/NPT.0000000000000184