Mary Free Bed Kids offers Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy to help children with conditions that cause weakness on one side of their body. It’s an innovative method of upper extremity rehabilitation designed to improve coordination, strength and confidence.
Who We Serve
CIMT may be appropriate if your child has difficulty using one arm or hand due to conditions such as:
- Cerebral palsy
- Stroke
- Brain injury
- Brachial plexus injury
Children who benefit most from the program are:
- At least one or two years old
- Able to follow directions and maintain attention for at least 15 minutes
Family members or caregivers are expected to attend and participate in therapy sessions.
What to Expect
Your child’s individualized treatment plan begins with an evaluation by our team of pediatric rehabilitation specialists. We’ll identify your child’s needs and discuss your goals for treatment.
Depending on screening results and your input, we’ll schedule your child to participate in three to five weeks of intensive occupational therapy – up to two hours a day for three to five days a week. Sessions are held in a welcoming, kid-friendly environment.
Two removable polyester casts – one for dry activities and one for wet activities – will be made for your child to wear on the stronger arm. To encourage your child to use the weaker limb, the cast is worn 24 hours a day for the duration of the program.
At Mary Free Bed, we’re experts at disguising therapy as play. During each session, your child will use the affected arm and hand to learn and practice a mix of activities. Together, we’ll work to improve:
- Use of the arm, hand and fingers
- Self-care skills, such as dressing, bathing and eating
- Strength
- Coordination
- Confidence
Your Child’s Team
Our goal is the same as yours – to help your child maximize his or her ability. Our occupational therapists, who have extensive training in CIMT, will share activities and exercises you can do at home with your child to ensure continued progress. If you child needs additional therapy and special services, we’re here for as long as your family needs us.
Contact Us
616.840.8005
800.668.6001