What is Constraint Induced Movement Therapy?
Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) is an intensive, innovative treatment method for children with hemiplegia. It involves the casting of the unaffected, more dominant hand which encourages and increases functional movements, as well as the functional use of the affected upper extremity through repetition of fun and functional tasks. Multiple studies have shown the efficacy of this new treatment technique over traditional therapy methods. (1, 2, 3)

How Does CIMT Work?
The unaffected upper extremity is casted and the cast remains on the child’s arm for at least 23 hours a day throughout the course of camp. The camp runs Monday through Friday for three weeks for a total of 15 days. During camp hours, the child is engaged in tasks that are age and skill appropriate to encourage an increase in functional use of the upper extremity. Each child will participate in individual as well as group activities that emphasize skill development in the affected upper extremity. Each child is also provided with a Home Exercise Program to help the parents facilitate skill development during daily routines.

An initial interview and assessment is administered to determine each child’s appropriateness for camp. Prior to attending camp, each child will undergo pre-testing to determine current levels of function and the amount of use of the affected upper extremity. Goal setting takes place with the child and the family. A cast is then fabricated for each child. After the completion of camp, post-testing will be conducted to determine the amount of progress and skill that has developed.

Would My Child Benefit From This Camp?
Any child between the ages of four and eight with upper extremity hemiparesis due to a diagnosis of cerebral palsy, brain tumor, traumatic brain injury, stroke, etc., would benefit from this camp. The child should have at least minimal movement in his/her affected extremity, be medically stable and free from seizures. The child should also be able to follow directions.

When and Where will the Camp Take Place?
The camp will be held at JFK Pediatric Rehabilitation in Edison New Jersey. Two sessions are being offered, July 12th through July 30th and August 2nd through August 20th. Each session runs for fifteen days (Monday through Friday) from 9am to 3pm. Family does not need to present during camp hours. Each child will be responsible for providing their own lunch and snacks.

Who Do I Contact for More Information?
Please contact Kristi Balent, Occupational Therapy Supervisor, at 732-548-7610.
JFK Pediatric Rehabilitation Department
2050 Oak Tree Rd
Edison, NJ 08820