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Constraint Induced Movement Therapy

Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) is a behavioral and neurorehabilitation program developed by Edward Taub, Ph.D. and colleagues at the University of Birmington, Alabama. It consists of a set of interventions that are used to encourage the brain to “rewire” itself.  

The treatment provided at our clinic is based on the evidence from extensive clinical research which has shown that CIMT Therapy has been found to be effective for the recovery of function after stroke and traumatic brain injury and other neurological conditions regardless of the time since injury. 

Who is a candidate for treatment?

Potential candidates include children, adolescents and adults who have neurological impairments as a result of a stroke, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological conditions. Constraint Induced Movement Therapy is most effective when provided at least 6 months after your injury.

Impairments treated in the arm and hand program include: weakness of the arm and hand, decreased use of affected arm and hand, decreased coordination and fine motor skills, difficulty performing daily tasks such as dressing, grooming, and eating.

Common impairments treated in the leg program include: decreased balance and coordination when walking or standing, difficulty getting up from a seated position, decreased strength of the lower extremities, difficulty stepping up/down from a curb or going up and down stairs, and decreased walking speed.

What kind of time commitment is involved for treatment?

During the adult program, treatment is provided 3.5 hours a day, five consecutive weekdays for 2 to 3 consecutive weeks. CIMT is an intensive program and is designed this way to help you make quicker improvements. Each day after the completion of treatment in the clinic, you will be asked to complete home practice activities in the evening and on weekends.

What can I expect during Constraint Induced Movement Therapy?

Your physiotherapist will work exclusively with you to design and guide you through an individualized treatment program which takes into account your current ability and goals. She will discuss important ways to decrease the use of your better arm or leg and encourage your brain to focus on the function of your affected side.

The Paediatric CIMT program is structured differently depending on the age of your child. We would be happy to discuss your child’s individual needs.

After completing your CIMT treatment program, you will be given an individualized program to follow at home.