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Constraint Induced Movement Thearapy (CIMT) - Using my helping hand.

Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) involves constraint of the non-affected upper extremity in combination while engaging in activities.

This can be done in one-on-one sessions and at home in a specified period of time. Best practice would suggest one thirty minute session per day for 6 weeks.

CIMT has four goals:

To facilitate more spontaneous use of the affected upper extremity

To improve quality of movement of the affected upper extremity

To increase overall functional use of the affected upper extremity

To improve quality of life skills

What do we do?

* Prepare lots of activities which are at appropriate level to involve the affected/helper hand (see ideas below)

Place a glove, sock, or puppet on the non-affected hand

Make it as fun as possible, let it be child friendly

Reward any attempts made with social praise and using a reward chart (see attached)

Give choice where possible e.g. between colours, activities, etc. Create a choice board i.e. a page with all activities on it that Beth can choose from

Keep a short diary of the activities you complete daily. Note what went well, what didn’t go well, and note progress throughout.

Ring if you need help.

Structure

Carry out 30 minutes per day.

This may be done during fun activities, play, arts and crafts or more functional chores e.g. washing table or washing dishes.

Carry out one activity for 5 minutes and give two stickers for activities completed with helper hand. If there is an activity she completes for less than 5 minutes, stay with an activity she likes for longer.

The aim is to encourage use of helper hand intensively via various activities and play e.g.sensory play , food play , ball games . If ye would like to know more about CIMT please contact more for intense thearpy and advise ..