 |
The
concept of the weighted vest is based on the SI therapy technique
of deep pressure. Deep pressure is often used to assist the
child to self-calm and relax so that sensory stimulus can be
processed. The use of a weighted vest provides the child with
unconscious information from the muscles and joints.
|
 |
Children
who are easily distracted, hyperactive and lacking in concentration
respond positively to the additional weight a vest provides.
Although
there is limited research in the area of weighted vest therapy,
many therapists have found a weighted vest may also assist with
reflex maturity, body position awareness and coordination, balance,
eye/hand coordination, spatial perception and hearing and speaking
skills. Because of these anecdotal outcomes, many therapists
working with children are recommending the use of a weighted
vest.
|
EDUCATION |
WEIGH ME DOWN AND HOLD ME TIGHT!
The question is... do I need weight or pressure for my child? The answer is... it depends. We all respond differently to touch and pressure. Some of us like strong hugs, others don't. Some of us sleep weighted down with covers, others prefer nothing. Very often children with Autism, Sensory Integration Disorder, ADHD, and other neurological challenges respond well to either weight or pressure. The theory is that for reasons beyond the scope of this discussion, their nervous systems do not perceive and understand proprioception (perception mediated by nerve endings concerning movement and position). It is as if the nervous system does not understand what is happening in the rest of the body. It continually sends messages saying, "Hey, what's going on?" and in response the body moves saying, "We're okay". We often see children who are constantly on the move, but not understanding their movement when additional weight or pressure is applied, the brain gets a clear understanding of what is going on and the child is thus able to concentrate on more important tasks such as writing, reading, eating, etc. whereas some children need the pressure applied for long periods of time (a pressure vest), others may do well with interval pressure (a weighted vest, being squashed inside a mat... with supervision of course). It all depends on the child. Used in combination with behavioral modification and other therapies, a weight or pressure product is highly beneficial.
- Ilana M. Danneman, Mom, PT; Cecilia Cruise, MS, OTR/L
|
|
 |
