Wilbarger Therapy Brush, 2 Pack – Therapressure Brush for Occupational Therapy for Sensory Brushing – Designed by Patricia Wilbarger – Use as Part of The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol

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Even though it was only 3-5 minutes each cycle, remembering to do it every 90 minutes was tough. In addition, when I was feeling better, I could not be sure it was the brushing that was affecting me. It could have been a sunny day, my mood was elevated, I had a good night’s rest, and had a good breakfast. It did not harm me, and even if it was a placebo, it was worth it to feel better. Wilbarger, P. & Wilbarger, J. (1991). Sensory Defensiveness in Children Aged 2-12: An Intervention Guide for Parents and Other Caretakers, Avanti Educational Programs: Santa Barbara, CA. In my clinical opinion, the therapeutic benefit of the brushing protocol is the deep pressure touch which is involved during the process. So why not just incorporate full body deep pressure touch throughout the day instead? It is very well accepted, enjoyed, and can easily be added to so many daily activities throughout the day. The best part is deep pressure touch is the most accepted form of sensory input and is regulating, organizing, and calming or alerting for the brain. Toss in a little joint traction and joint compression via wheelbarrow walking, jumping, hopping, hanging from a bar, etc. and you are good to go!

THE WILBARGER PROTOCOL FOR SENSORY DEFENSIVENESS Deep

Molly enjoys working with young children and their families, focusing on parent-child interactions and home routines. She is a regular contributor to a parenting blog about typical development. Her professional interests have stemmed from her certificate work in assistive technology, hippotherapy practice, and consultation to a nature-based program in New Hampshire.

This is the sensory brush designed by Patricia Wilbarger, the occupational therapist who developed the Wilbarger protocol, also known as "brushing therapy". This brush is designed with high density bristles with an attached handle. The oval shaped ergonomic design of the handle makes it easy to hold and use. I was trained by an OT who thought she was doing the technique correctly and she was not. I was doing it ALL WRONG A sensory brush, or therapy brush, is used as part of the Wilbarger brushing protocol, something that an occupational therapist, trained in sensory integration techniques, may prescribe as part of a home sensory program for your child.

Systematic review of the effectiveness of the Wilbarger Systematic review of the effectiveness of the Wilbarger

My 4 year old boy has a huge uncontrollable meltdown over his shoes every morning when I try to put them on. He had velcro shoes which were too loose A warm cup of milk, a short yoga sequence, brushing and a bedtime story can prepare all the sensory systems for rest.

Sensory brushing is more effective over bare skin, however if brushing over clothing pull the clothing tight and eliminate bumps The DPPT uses a specific pattern of stimulation delivered using a special type of brush and gentle joint compressions. It is believed to facilitate the coordination of mind-brain-body processes in a manner that influences positive change. It is applied every two hours for a number of days, which is specified by through the collaborative process between the recipient of the protocol and the trained therapist. However, the DPPT protocol may be used between these scheduled two-hour sessions when a person becomes overwhelmed, triggered, when waking up after having nightmares/night terrors, and before and/or after difficult transitions or situations. In the past it was simply referred to as the Wilbarger Brushing Protocol, or the Wilbarger Protocol. The DPPT refers to the specific sensory modulation techniques developed by Patricia Wilbarger, MEd, OTR, FAOTA.

Wilbarger Brushing Protocol: Who Can Do It? Wilbarger Brushing Protocol: Who Can Do It?

The technique is called “brushing” only because of the tool that is used, but it’s not with your typical hairbrush. What Is a Sensory Brush? Tactile defensiveness– fear and discomfort of being touched, touching things, or having something touch the skin. The brushing program can reduce tactile defensiveness and oversensitive responses Adverse reactions can be very strong. I have seen children being brushed incorrectly and they were then put into a fight or flight response. They were then also scared of being brushed. Thank you for reading our blog! That’s a really good question. We recommend reaching out to an OT who works with stroke patients. It’s very likely that sensory brushing could have benefits. Also, there is a good article about sensory brushing for stroke patients found here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6283184/Best practice is to brush every 90 minutes to 2 hours, stopping at least 2-3 hours before bedtime, as brushing can increase arousal level. Aim for at least six brushes daily Another perfect place for brushing is in bonding between parent and child. Brushing can be similar to infant massage in principle, as it is done with a trusted caregiver and helps target the proprioceptive system and calm the tactile (touch) system. Brushing should be a desired activity for the child and enjoyed by both participants. Do not brush the stomach or chest. Brushing the stomach may affect digestion, and the chest may affect respiration. Sensory brushing can do several things, and depending on the individual and their sensory preferences or sensory needs, there can be different results following use of a sensory brush.