Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT)
While it is hard work for both patients and therapists, Constraint Induced Movement Therapy, (CIMT) is the most widely recommended treatment for post-stroke upper limb recovery. Endorsed by the National Stroke Foundations of Australia, Canada, USA and the UK, CIMT also has great efficacy for upper limb recovery in Cerebral Palsy and Traumatic Brain Injuries.
CIMT involves a behavioural contract with the therapist, patient and carer to complete daily upper limb tasks (eg, brushing teeth, eating, dressing) with the affected arm with assistance if needed both during and outside one on one therapy, this is crucial. Additionally you will participate in intensive one on one therapy daily for four hours for two weeks, modifications can be made to this called Modified Constraint Induced Movement Therapy adjusting some time parameters if needed worked out on an individual basis. During the sessions patients will work on specific functional tasks as well as shaping tasks where smaller components of the overall functional activity are broken down and practised.
Unfortunately, improvements are hard won and need consistent work to maintain – attention most hospitals can’t provide. I am committed to working with you through the full CIMT program, assuring the maximum positive change to your life. With me, you may work harder than many elite athletes, but the benefits will be immeasurable.
For further information on CIMT I recommend you look at the following youtube clip from The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge, available for purchase in book and audiobook formats.
Or visit the website of the founders of the intervention, The Taub Clinic at the University of Alabama where I completed the training www.taubtherapy.com I can not explain this intervention better than it's creators, my heartfelt thanks to them all at the Taub Clinic for sharing this and improving the lives of many.
LSVT Big
Another innovative neuroplastic evidenced based therapy that improves the overall function of patients with Parkinson's disease. Specifically it involves 16 hours of one on one high intensity therapy over a month working on all limb and trunk movements that are performed on a daily basis. And yes practise at home during the course of treatment is required, neuroplastic changes require high intensity and repetition. Think of it like brushing your teeth daily.
Visit the originators website for a full description www.lsvtglobal.com
Also click here for a moving look at a patient doing the therapy. I don't come up with the interventions, I just deliver them well.
General Rehabilitation
When people are suffering from illness or injury its hard to get back on track doing the things you want. That’s where Occupational Therapy can help, it has been my privilege to work with a diverse range people on goals from going to the toilet again to getting back to playing golf, each uniquely important to the individual. I offer a personal, professional and empathetic service addressing not only the important physical elements but the regularly overlooked emotional and mental issues involved with recovery. These interventions I have delivered to people with Orthopaedic injuries , Transplant recipients, Amputees, Traumatic Brain Injuries, Geriatrics, Chronic Pain sufferers and people / families affected by complex disabilities.
The interventions I can provide include manual handling training, functional task practise, equipment prescription and home modifications. Many of the neuroplastic concepts used in other interventions can also be successfully applied to other illnesses and injuries, its about breaking negative habits and adding new positive ones. The more challenging the problem the better. If you have goals that you wish to pursue to improve your life I want to help you achieve them.