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Tag: balance

Why is Vestibular Input So Crucial?

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The Power of Movement: Why Vestibular Input is Essential for Your Child’s Development

The vestibular system is responsible for detecting motion and changes in position in space. It helps us maintain balance, stabilize our gaze, and coordinate our movements. The vestibular system can be over-responsive or under-responsive, leading to difficulties in managing sensory input related to balance and movement. Whether it’s seeking constant motion or avoiding certain activities, the way the brain interprets vestibular input can deeply affect everyday functioning.

How Vestibular Input Affects Our Sensory System

  1. Balance and Coordination: Vestibular input plays a key role in physical coordination. When the vestibular system is under-responsive, kiddos may seek out activities that provide more movement or stimulation, such as swinging, jumping, or spinning. On the other hand, kiddos with an over-responsive vestibular system may become easily disoriented, dizzy, or upset by even small changes in movement. 
  2. Emotional Regulation: The vestibular system isn’t just responsible for physical movement; it also affects emotional regulation. Movement helps to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the body after stress. For some kiddos, vestibular input can either help calm an anxious or overstimulated state or heighten feelings of discomfort. For example, slow, rhythmic movements like rocking or swinging can be soothing, while more intense or unpredictable motion can lead to sensory overload and anxiety. On the other hand, for some kiddos, light touch may be offputting, but a rigorous spin on the platform swing is enjoyable.
  3. Attention and Focus: Proper vestibular input can support better attention and focus, particularly in the classroom setting. Kiddos who are under-responsive to vestibular input may have trouble staying seated or paying attention for long periods. On the flip side, those who are over-responsive may become distracted or overwhelmed by movement in their environment. Finding the right level of vestibular stimulation can help maintain attention and improve cognitive function.

How to Support Vestibular Input in Your Child

Supporting vestibular input for  your child is crucial for promoting better sensory regulation. Occupational therapists (OTs) often use vestibular activities as part of their therapeutic interventions. Here are some ways to provide beneficial vestibular input:

  1. Slow, Rhythmic Movement: Kiddos who need calming input, gentle rocking, swinging, or using a therapy ball can provide the right kind of stimulation. These types of activities help to regulate the nervous system and support emotional regulation.
  2. Varied Movement: Kiddos who seek more intense vestibular input, activities like jumping on a trampoline, spinning in a chair, or fast-paced swinging can help. However, it’s important to introduce these activities gradually and monitor the individual’s response to prevent overstimulation.
  3. Balance Activities: Balancing exercises, like standing on one foot or using balance boards, can help kiddos improve their proprioception and vestibular awareness. These activities also promote motor coordination and body awareness.
  4. Environmental Modifications: The environment can greatly impact how a kiddo processes vestibular input. Using furniture that allows for movement, incorporating standing desks, or offering fidget tools can help them stay engaged without becoming overstimulated.

How Can Carolina Therapy Connection Help?

By tailoring sensory experiences to a kiddo’s needs, we can help them achieve better regulation, improve their motor skills, and enhance their overall quality of life. Whether through therapeutic exercises, environmental adjustments, or careful attention to their sensory needs, ensuring that vestibular input is appropriately addressed can make a world of difference in your kiddo’s life!

 

By Shelby Godwin, COTA/L, AC

 

 

Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training: Helping Kids Walk with Confidence

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Improving Mobility with Body Weight Support Treadmill Training for Children

Walking is a fundamental skill that plays an essential role in a child’s ability to explore the world around them and engage in everyday activities. For some children, however, walking may be challenging due to conditions such as cerebral palsy, brain and spinal cord injuries, developmental delays, and musculoskeletal conditions. This is where Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training (BWSTT) can make a significant difference.

What is Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training?

Body-weight support Treadmill/Gait Training utilizes a specialized treadmill system designed to support a portion of a child’s body weight as they practice walking. As the child walks on the treadmill, they are supported by a harness or a body-weight reduction system that gradually decreases as they gain strength, balance, and coordination. The overall goal is to promote improved mobility and functional walking patterns. 

How Does BWSTT Help?

BWSTT offers several key benefits for children, including:

  • Strength and Endurance: By practicing walking on the treadmill, children build the muscles needed for independent movement. This also improves their overall endurance, allowing them to walk for longer periods without fatigue.
  • Coordination: Walking requires coordination between the legs and upper body, and BWSTT helps children develop these skills. Over time, the child becomes better at coordinating their movements and maintaining a natural gait.
  • Balance: One of the biggest challenges for children with walking impairments is maintaining balance. BWSTT allows children to practice walking in a controlled and safe environment while the therapist provides hands-on support to assist with balance and stability.
  • Promotes Independent Walking: As the child progresses through therapy, the amount of body weight support is gradually reduced, enabling them to work toward independent walking.

Who Can Benefit from BWSTT?

A multitude of diagnoses can benefit from BWSTT, including: 

  • Cerebral Palsy: Children with cerebral palsy often struggle with muscle control and coordination. BWSTT can help improve their gait and strength, leading to better mobility and independence.
  • Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries: Some children who have sustained brain or spinal cord injuries can benefit from BWSTT to regain strength and improve their walking ability.
  • Developmental Delays: Children with developmental delays may not develop typical walking patterns as expected. BWSTT helps them practice walking while building strength and balance.
  • Musculoskeletal Conditions: Conditions that affect the muscles and bones, such as joint disorders or muscle weakness, can be improved through gait training, focusing on strengthening, repetition, and building endurance. 

The Role of the Therapist

While the child walks on the treadmill, a therapist provides hands-on guidance and support, ensuring the child is practicing proper walking patterns. The therapist can adjust the body weight support system and provide real-time feedback to help the child improve their walking pattern. As the child progresses, the therapist will reduce the support they provide, allowing the child to walk more independently over time.

Why BWSTT Works

BWSTT works by allowing the natural walking process while providing support and assistance. This enables children to practice walking at a pace and intensity that suits their abilities, helping them build confidence and the physical skills necessary to walk independently.

Carolina Therapy Connection Can Help

At Carolina Therapy Connection, we understand the importance of walking and mobility for children’s development. Our team of skilled pediatric therapists utilizes Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training to help children improve their walking skills, strength, and coordination. We offer personalized therapy plans that focus on each child’s needs and abilities, ensuring they get the most out of their sessions.

If your child struggles with walking due to neurological impairments, developmental delays, or musculoskeletal conditions, our team is here to help. If you want to learn more about Body Weight Support Treadmill/Gait Training and how we incorporate this approach into therapy, including intensives, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to schedule an evaluation. You can also use this link to explore our pediatric intensive therapy services.