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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Patricia Wilbarger is an occupational therapist and a clinical psychologist who is also known for coining the phrase “ sensory diet.” She is a leading expert in the area of sensory defensiveness (the over-responsiveness of the protective responses of the nervous system). The Wilbarger Protocol is designed to be used in conjunction with an individualized sensory “diet” based on the specific needs of the child and carried out under the guidance of someone familiar with the protocol and trained in sensory integration theory and practice. Give parents some leeway as they incorporate this into their busy lives. Remind them it is only for a couple of weeks. Like adding an antibiotic, it is tough at first, but will be over soon. If caregivers can only get four cycles in a day, that is better than nothing. If they are not doing it consistently enough to gauge progress, it might be better to wait until they are able to commit to this program before starting. Treatment can be carried out at home, in school or at the clinic, and often depends on the nature of the session and the areas of development targeted.

Wilbarger Therapressure Brush - National Autism Resources Wilbarger Therapressure Brush - National Autism Resources

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. Negative side effects such as difficulty eating, sleeping, worsening of behavior, digestive issues, moodiness, etc. If these occur, advise spreading out the brushing until the learner’s system accommodates to it 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. Thanks for reading our blog! A surgical brush is recommended as the bristles are stiff and do not bend easily, providing the right amount of sensory input on the skin. Let us know if you have any other questions. The DPPT requires the use of a special, soft, plastic surgical brush and no other kind. This brush is believed to be the most effective for the delivery of the specific type of stimulation to the nerve endings of the skin that is required by this protocol. The brushing portion of the DTTP applies very firm pressure, which begins at the arms and works down toward the feet. The stomach and chest areas are avoided due to the potential to influence the urge to vomit or urinate when applied over these areas. People may initially find it aversive, particularly those with sensory defensiveness. However, over time it is often much more readily accepted and may become pleasing as the system. Generally, within a few sessions, it becomes a pleasurable experience. When for any reason it is not preferable to use touch methods with people, they can be taught to apply these techniques to themselves.It can increase a child’s ability to optimize their arousal and activity levels as well as decrease sensory defensiveness. The Wilbarger brushing protocol involves the sensory brush, paired with joint compressions, completed in a sequence and according to a schedule. 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. If the child is not tolerating the brushing, do NOT force it, not even in the beginning. The cornerstone and number one concept of the sensory integration theory is, CHILD LED and CHILD DIRECTED.

To Brush or Not to Brush - A Sensory Life! To Brush or Not to Brush - A Sensory Life!

A sensory brush looks like a surgical scrub brush, or a brush used to remove corn silk from a corncob. A warm cup of milk, a short yoga sequence, brushing and a bedtime story can prepare all the sensory systems for rest. Please note: training in sensory brushing is absolutely necessary before attempting to use this technique in practice, otherwise harmful or ineffective influences may be the result. Be sure to receive the most up to date brushing protocol training as it has changed over the years. When to trial a sensory brushing program? Thanks for your question! I highly recommend talking to your child’s OT. Also, try doing a search on YouTube for “Wilbarger Protocol”. You may be able to find some very helpful “how to” videos.

The child should be in a seated position during brushing if possible and it should be done in a calm, quiet area. Based on the theory of Ayres Sensory Integration, the DPPT, or sensory brushing technique, uses a prescribed method of providing stimulation through pressure touch massage, to help the mind-brain-body self-organize. The Wilbarger Protocol (Wilbarger, 1991) is a specific, professionally guided treatment regime designed to reduce sensory defensiveness, developed by Patricia Wilbarger. The Wilbarger Protocol has its origins in sensory integration theory, and it has evolved through clinical use. It involves deep-touch pressure throughout the day.

Brushing Technique For Autism And SPD - The Virtual Pediatric OT Brushing Technique For Autism And SPD - The Virtual Pediatric OT

Brush arms covering as much surface area as possible, 5 strokes in a up/down motion, covering the area 2X. 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. Thanks for your questions. To find out more about sensory brushing, we recommend talking to an occupational therapist. Results that are seen may differ, depending on the individual. Also, it’s hard to know exactly how long it will take a child to be okay when using a sensory brush. Again, we advise that you speak to an OT for more info! Sensory brushing is a layperson’s term for the Wilbarger Deep Pressure and Proprioceptive Technique (DPPT) & Oral Tactile Technique (OTT). Following the "massage" stage, the child receives gentle compressions to the shoulders, elbows, wrists/fingers, hips, knees/ankles, and sternum. These compressions provide substantial proprioceptive input.

According to Patricia Wilbarger, "the high density of the bristles make it an ideal brush for the body." For specific instructions on brushing therapy it's best to speak with an occupational therapist or therapist trained in the Wilbarger Protocol. Do not let your child brush him/herself...unless they are old enough and competent to be trained to due it with the specific technique and protocol. The brushing is supposed to be followed up with joint compressions that provide proprioceptive input to a child's joints. Who Should use the Brushing Technique for Autism and SPD? thanks molly shaw Wilson for this great information. please I want to find out if it possible or appropriate to use one therapy brush for more than one child? Sensory brushing should not cause pain. It might take some practice and effort to complete the cycles, but it will be worth it!

WILBARGER DEEP PRESSURE PROTOCOL - Therakids WILBARGER DEEP PRESSURE PROTOCOL - Therakids

Brush feet holding one hand on top and the other using the brush in a in a sweeping movement. Move top hand in sync with the bottom one 5X. Based on the theory of Sensory Integration, the DPPT uses a prescriptive method of providing stimulation to help the mind-brain-body self-organize. Patricia Wilbarger and her daughter Julia Wilbarger, MS, OTR offer workshops for professionals who wish to use these techniques in practice. Please note: training is absolutely necessary before attempting to use this technique in practice. Use requires a trained therapist otherwise harmful or ineffective influences may be the result. 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.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.