top of page
Writer's picturebeelievepediatric

Intensive Tools: DMI

Updated: Apr 10

Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI)


A technique used during Intensive Therapy by Occupational and Physical Therapists to improve automatic postural responses. The goal of DMI is to encourage specific responses to movement by the therapist, with varying levels of assistance. This technique stimulates neuroplasticity to facilitate new neuronal (brain-body) connections to promote progress toward developmental milestones.

Dynamic Movement Image

Kiddos with any type of motor delay can benefit from DMI, as it stimulates postural control, promotes neurological maturity, develops automatic motor movements, and focuses on functional ability. We treat kiddos with a range of conditions, mainly those that affect a child’s neurological development. Some of these include:

  • Cerebral palsy

  • Dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder cs2w)

  • Spina bifida

  • Developmental delay

  • Hypotonia

  • Genetic disorders

  • Chromosomal abnormalities


Our therapists will create an exercise routine for each kiddo, tailoring it to their current skill level and goals. These exercises require them to move against gravity, adapt to changes in support levels, and overcome sensory and motor challenges. Intensives is the perfect time to utilize this technique because it requires a high level of repetition to make these movements more automatic and benefit their daily lives. At Beelieve, we have OTs and PTs that are certified in this technique, so they may utilize different exercises to target individual gross or fine motor goals. Our treatments are often child-led, utilizing preferred tasks or toys, which helps to mask the repetition and means they have fun while working super hard!


Benefits:

  • Develops automatic motor movement

  • Independence

  • Alignment and postural control

  • Increases muscle and joint range of motion

  • Improves balance

  • Higher rate of functional movements (rolling, sitting, standing, walking, etc)

  • Somatosensory development

  • Modifying tone/ reflexes

  • Stimulates neuroplasticity to facilitate new neuronal connections

  • Stimulates postural control

  • Promotes neurological maturity

  • Focuses on functional ability


To learn more, visit https://dmitherapy.com/

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page