Common Conditions Treated with Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) in Pediatric Physical Therapy

Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) is a therapeutic approach that has been used in physical and occupational therapy to help children with motor delays. DMI utilizes a combination of exercises and techniques to promote progress toward developmental milestones by improving the child's automatic postural responses and stimulating neuroplasticity. 

Common Conditions Treated with DMI in Pediatric Physical Therapy

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy is a neurological condition that affects movement and coordination. One of the benefits of DMI for children with cerebral palsy is that it can help improve motor function and reduce spasticity. Spasticity is a common symptom of cerebral palsy and it can cause muscle stiffness, tightness, and involuntary movements. DMI can help reduce spasticity by promoting motor development and enhancing overall functioning. DMI help children with cerebral palsy achieve greater independence and mobility. By improving their motor function, children can learn to perform daily activities more effectively and participate in social activities with greater ease.

Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)

DCD is a condition that affects a child's ability to perform coordinated movements. One of the benefits of DMI for children with DCD is that it can help improve motor skills and coordination. By performing exercises that focus on specific movements and coordination, children with DCD can learn to perform daily tasks more effectively and with greater ease. DMI helps children with DCD achieve greater confidence and independence. By improving their motor function, children can learn to perform daily activities more effectively and participate in social activities with greater ease.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Children with ASD may have difficulty with motor planning and coordination. One of the benefits of DMI for children with ASD is that it can help improve motor function and reduce stereotypical behaviors. Stereotypical behaviors are repetitive and ritualistic actions that are common in children with ASD, such as hand flapping or rocking. By improving motor function, children with ASD may be able to better control these behaviors and focus more on daily activities and social interactions. DMI helps children with ASD achieve greater confidence and independence. By improving their motor function, children can learn to perform daily activities more effectively and participate in social activities with greater ease.

Down Syndrome

Children with Down syndrome may have low muscle tone and delayed motor development. One of the benefits of DMI for children with Down syndrome is that it can help improve strength, balance, and overall motor function. By performing exercises that focus on specific movements and muscle groups, children with Down syndrome can learn to perform daily tasks more effectively and with greater ease. DMI helps children with Down syndrome achieve greater confidence and independence. By improving their motor function, children can learn to perform daily activities more effectively and participate in social activities with greater ease.

Hypotonia

Hypotonia is a condition characterized by low muscle tone. One of the benefits of DMI for children with hypotonia is that it can help improve muscle tone and overall motor function. By performing exercises that focus on specific muscle groups and movements, children with hypotonia can learn to perform daily tasks more effectively and with greater ease. DMI helps children with hypotonia achieve greater confidence and independence. By improving their motor function, children can learn to perform daily activities more effectively and participate in social activities with greater ease.

It is important to note that DMI is not a cure for any of these conditions, but it can be a valuable therapeutic approach to help children achieve their goals and improve their overall quality of life. Each child's DMI program is customized to meet their specific needs and goals, and progress is monitored closely to ensure that the child is making progress toward their developmental milestones.

What does a DMI program consist of?

A DMI program typically consists of a combination of exercises and techniques that are designed to improve motor function and promote developmental progress. The program may include exercises to improve core stability, balance, coordination, and overall motor function. These exercises are typically performed in a dynamic and interactive environment to stimulate the child's natural motor responses.

Intensive therapy sessions are a key component of the DMI program at Moving Together Therapy. These sessions provide a boost in a child's overall progress in gross motor skills, strength, balance, functional mobility, and coordination. During each session, the child is guided through a series of exercises and activities designed to improve their motor function and enhance their overall functioning.

After completing each intensive therapy session, families are provided with a personalized home exercise program to continue progressing at home. This program is designed to be practical, easy to follow, and tailored to the child's specific needs. The home exercise program can help the child continue to improve their motor function and achieve their developmental goals.

Final Thoughts

Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) is a powerful therapeutic approach that can be used to help children with a wide range of physical disabilities and developmental delays. By promoting motor development and enhancing overall functioning, DMI can help children achieve greater independence and a higher quality of life. If you have concerns about your child's motor development or coordination, consider DMI with Moving Together Therapy as a way to support their progress and achieve their goals.

Dr. Erin Dinnie PT, DPT, COMT is a highly trained physical therapist and a Registered DMI Therapy Practitioner at Moving Together Therapy. With her extensive experience and expertise, Dr. Dinnie provides exceptional care and support to children with physical disabilities and developmental delays. As a Registered DMI Therapy Practitioner, she is highly skilled in utilizing Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) to help children achieve their developmental goals and enhance their overall functioning. She is passionate about providing personalized and comprehensive care to each child she works with, ensuring that they receive the support they need to reach their full potential.