„Pirate” rehabilitation cycle - Constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT)
Based on the principles of constraint-induced movement therapy, it is the first such physiotherapeutic program in Poland. Its guiding theme is Pirates who are setting off on a sea journey, in search of adventures. The therapy was developed as a result of the joint effort of highly qualified therapists working in our centre. Thanks to special scenography, props, costumes and music, this creative physiotherapy is extremely entertaining for children. Therapy of this kind is successfully carried out in many countries in western Europe, in Australia or the USA.
Pirate rehabilitation cycles are meant for patients with cranio-cerebral injuries, brachial plexus injuries and a number of neurological problems. Children who have one upper limb stronger than the other are often seen not using the weaker one. Despite the fact that motor and functional capabilities are maintained in the weaker limb, the child prefers to use the stronger one to be more effective and faster in everyday life. The goal of the therapy is to activate the weaker upper limb through intensive training, shaping and graduating the desired movement, with the exclusion of the stronger (healthy) upper limb, by means of wrapping it with a bandage.
The Pirate cycle is 2 weeks (10 days) long, 2 hours a day. During each session there are 4 patients, each of whom is cared for by a physiotherapist with NDT Bobath certificate. Before and after the cycle Asisting Hand Assessment (AHA) is carried out.
Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) - An Innovative Approach in Children's Rehabilitation
In today's medical world, rehabilitation methods are constantly being improved to ensure the best possible treatment results for patients. One of the most promising approaches, especially in the context of children's therapy, is the CIMT (Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy) method. But what exactly is CIMT and what benefits can it bring to children with motor disorders?What is CIMT?
CIMT, or Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy, was originally developed for adult stroke patients. It is an intensive therapy during which the "better," less affected hand or limb is immobilized, forcing the patient to use the more affected side. This encourages the brain to "re-wire" nerve connections, which contributes to improving the function of the paretic limb.Why is CIMT effective for children?
The CIMT method is particularly effective in children due to the plasticity of their brains. A child's brain is more flexible and capable of adaptation compared to an adult's brain. The key aspects of CIMT for children are:- Intensive Training: The child engages in regular exercises using the more affected limb.
- Application in Daily Life: Therapy is often based on daily activities, helping children with adaptation.
- Play: Children are often engaged in play during sessions, which makes the therapy more engaging.
Benefits of CIMT therapy
Here are the main benefits of CIMT therapy:- Improvement of function in the hand or limb affected by paresis.
- Increased self-confidence and independence of the child.
- Development of new neural connections in the brain.
