At Ability KC, we are proud to share research from our talented team. One of our own, Dr. Katherine S. Ryan-Bloomer, Ph.D., PRN Occupational Therapist, recently published a study. This study is titled “Young Children Benefit From Intensive, Group-Based Pediatric Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy.” The focus of the article is looking at a therapy program designed to help young children who have trouble using one of their arms.
The study focuses on group-based pediatric constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT). It looks at how CIMT helps children improve movement and coordination. In this review, we’ll explain what CIMT is, summarize the study and highlight key takeaways. By exploring the findings of this research, you can learn more about the benefits of CIMT for young children with disabilities.
What is constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT)?
CIMT is a therapy that helps people who have trouble using one side of their body, which can happen because of medical conditions like cerebral palsy or a stroke. CIMT works by gently limiting the stronger arm so the weaker arm is used more often. This strengthens the weaker arm, improves movement and helps with daily activities.
CIMT is often used for children with limited movement in one arm. It helps them learn to use both arms together in a natural way. Traditional CIMT typically happens one-on-one with a therapist. Dr. Ryan-Bloomer’s research, however, looks at a group-based CIMT program where children work together.
“Young Children Benefit From Intensive, Group-Based Pediatric Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy”: A review
This study tested whether group-based CIMT was effective for young children. Instead of working alone with a therapist, children participated in CIMT together. They played games and did activities designed to help them use their weaker arm. The goal was to see how well this group approach worked for young patients. The study looked at several areas, including arm movement and fine motor skills.
We congratulate Katie on the publication of her work. We would like to thank Lesan Peters (OT at Ability KC), Bethany Tackett (former OT at Ability KC), and the many pediatric team members and families who supported and participated in this research.
Key research findings
- Children used their weaker arm more — Following CIMT, children tended to use their affected arm much more than before. They showed improvements in grabbing, holding and moving objects. Parents and therapists also saw children using their weaker arms during playtime and everyday tasks. Statistically speaking, patients “significantly improved in bimanual coordination.”
- Motor skills improved — Fine motor skills involve small hand and finger movements used for activities like eating, dressing and writing. Gross motor skills are abilities that involve large movements, such as crawling or throwing a ball. The study found that children in the CIMT program improved their fine and gross motor skills. By the end of treatment, children were better able to hold and manipulate small objects. They had less difficulty gripping and releasing toys and utensils. Fine motor skills are important for a lot of precise tasks, such as drawing. Motor skills, both fine and gross, are also important for independence. The more control children have over their hands and arms, the easier it is to do daily tasks on their own.
- Engagement boosted social function — The study reports “statistically significant gains in social function, following CIMT intervention.” Socialization can have a lot of benefits for young children. Encouragement from peers may help a child try harder. Seeing others in a similar situation succeed may make them feel more confident in their own abilities. Interacting with peers in treatment can also make therapy feel less like work and more like play.
This study is important because it shows that group-based CIMT can be a great option for young children. Many therapy programs focus on one-on-one sessions, but this research proves that kids can make just as much progress, if not more, when working in a group. The study also highlights the importance of early and intensive therapy. The sooner a child starts therapy, the greater their chances of improving movement and independence.
Your child may benefit from constraint-induced movement therapy at Ability KC
At Ability KC, we are committed to using the latest research to help children gain independence. Dr. Ryan-Bloomer’s study supports our belief that therapy should be engaging and effective. Our team is committed to delivering top-notch rehabilitation services to patients in our community. While we do offer specialized pediatric programs, we can help people of all ages. With CIMT and other therapies, we can provide you with the support you need to thrive.
Ability KC is a designated Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF) with a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.