Great job Jordan putting this out there! It's important for viewers to know a few additional things: brushing should never be done over certain areas of the body as you mentioned, but also never over the spine. Instead, an "M" or "W" motion should be made over the back. When moving between body areas, you should not "break contact" with the child because this can be alerting instead of calming (ie- moving from arms to legs the adult keeps one hand on arm, puts their other hand on leg, then both hands on leg). This is also referred to as Deep Pressure and Proprioceptive Technique (DPPT) now. -Alison A., MS, OTR/L
I attended the Wilbarger course at least two times, many years ago. I agree with others that you should never pick up the brush and loose contact. Also if you are brushing over clothing you turn the brush. Brushing of the hands and feet with fast brushing, I was never taught that. I never remember them instructing to brush 10 times on each body part. This could all be the latest protocol. I do not know. Brushing program is an intense program with a specific protocol. This is a 2 -day course for OT's. Please use extreme caution with this treatment technique.
I wonder if it is just the touch and attention - wondering if the same kind attention with dry brush or any kind of regular predictable attention would work.
Everything I've ever read about this, you are NOT supposed to lift the brush off of their skin! Why are you lifting the brush? Just curious, because I'm going to be starting this with my child and I'm watching a bunch of videos and reading all that I can. This is the first time I never heard someone say to NOT lift the brush when you go from one arm to the back then other arm and to legs. ???
Hi Maria. There are many different ways to complete brushing based on your child's needs and what the purpose of the protocol is. Therapeutic brushing can be used to alert, desensite, calm and or increase attention in children. Also, each child may react to the brushing differently. Occupationnal therapists are trained in many different ways to help the individual needs of the child. You will see some practioners recommend lifting and others not. It is based on the individual characteristics of your child. This is why we recommend being educated by an occupational therapist who can not only provide you with the correct protocol to use with your child, but will make sure you are completing the protocol correctly to minimize any negative reactions.
