Constraint Induced Movement Therapy

What is CIMT?

Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT), is an innovative, evidence based rehabilitation approach developed by Dr. Edward Taub at the University of Alabama, Birmingham. Some children who have neuromotor conditions will often use their stronger hand and neglect to use their weaker hand. This is called developmental or learned non-use. CIMT encourages neuroplasticity, or the “re-wiring” of the brain, to improve arm and hand function. It is an intensive therapy program where children are seen for 3 hours a day, 5 days a week, for 3 weeks.   

UCP of Orange County's CIMT program is aimed at improving:  

• Use of affected arm, hand, and fingers 

• Skills to care for self (dressing, feeding, etc.) 

• Upper extremity strength 

• Coordination 

​

Who benefits from CIMT?

CIMT is effective in children who have limited use of one arm and hand due to a medical condition or injury such as:  

• Cerebral Palsy 

• Stroke 

• Head Injury  

• Brachial Plexus Injury  

Candidates for CIMT are children who: 

• Are 18 months or older 

• Have limited functional use of one arm/hand 

• Maintain attention and follow directions for at least 15 minutes 

• Have caregivers available to participate in therapy sessions and complete extensive home programming 

​

What to expect during CIMT

An occupational therapist who received extensive CIMT training will evaluate your child to identify needs and determine individualized goals. CIMT therapists welcome collaboration between all service providers to support long-term goals. The child's less affected arm/hand is placed in a removable cast, and he or she is expected to perform all activities and exercises using the more affected arm/hand during the entire program. Upon completion of the program, children return to their ongoing therapies. For more information about this program, click here. For parent testimonials, click here.

​

Frequently Asked Questions | What To Expect | CIMT Research Study

​

​

For more information about this program:

Frances Pulido, OTR/L, CIMT Coordinator