Goal-oriented intervention for functional goal and motor skill in infant with or at risk of neuromotor dysfunction.

This study investigates the effect of an individualized goal-oriented intervention on functional goals and motor skills in infants aged 12 ± 3 months who are at risk of or have neuromotor dysfunction. Neuromotor dysfunction refers to impairments in motor control, coordination, and movement resulting from disturbances in the developing nervous system. During infancy, the brain demonstrates high neural plasticity, making early identification and intervention crucial for improving motor outcomes and preventing long-term functional limitations.

The study emphasizes a goal-directed, family-centered therapy approach, where meaningful and personalized functional goals are identified collaboratively with caregivers. Functional goals are prioritized because they directly relate to daily activities and promote active participation. Infants are screened using the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination (HINE) to ensure accurate identification of those at risk. Motor development and progress are assessed using the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales-2 (PDMS-2), while individualized functional achievement is measured through the Goal Attainment Scale (GAS).

A pre–post quasi-experimental design will be conducted at a high-risk baby clinic in a tertiary care hospital. Twenty-one eligible infants will be recruited through consecutive sampling. After baseline GAS and PDMS-2 assessments, each infant will receive a four-week individualized goal-directed therapy program. Caregivers will perform daily home-based sessions, supported by therapist guidance through tele-rehabilitation twice weekly. The intervention follows structured steps including goal setting, task analysis, strategy planning, skill practice, feedback, and re-evaluation.

Post-intervention assessments will compare changes in motor skills and functional goal achievement. Statistical analysis will determine the effectiveness of the intervention. The study aims to demonstrate that early, structured, goal-oriented therapy combined with caregiver involvement can significantly enhance motor development and functional independence in infants at risk of neuromotor dysfunction, thereby supporting better long-term developmental outcomes.