Autism challenges the individual, their family, the community and the practitioner. The complexity and variety of symptoms that define Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) require service providers to constantly update their knowledge and skills to best serve these individuals. Sensorimotor synchronization training with Interactive Metronome (IM), as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, has the potential to directly and positively influence the person’s ability to learn and engage with the world around him. This course will introduce practitioners to new advances in our understanding of ASD, including the pivotal role of timing & rhythm for speech, language, pragmatic, cognitive, motor and sensory processing skills. Participants will learn strategies to evaluate the unique strengths and needs of each individual with ASD as well as how to develop and implement effective IM training with consideration for communication, sensory, motor & behavioral challenges. The expert presenter will incorporate several videos and real examples to illustrate techniques. Take the course at https://secure.interactivemetronome.com/NetSite/IM/CEU/SimpleRegistration.aspx?course_id=2778
Presentation that looks at the current clinical research on possible causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Includes brief mention of the use of Homeobotanicals in secondary symptom treatment management.
Social Communication Disorder encompasses problems with social interaction, social understanding and pragmatics. Pragmatics refers to using language in proper context.
Presentation that looks at the current clinical research on possible causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Includes brief mention of the use of Homeobotanicals in secondary symptom treatment management.
Social Communication Disorder encompasses problems with social interaction, social understanding and pragmatics. Pragmatics refers to using language in proper context.
Please find the power point on Management of alcohol withdrawl seizure . I tried to present it on understandable way and all the contents are reviewed by experts and from very reliable references. Thank you
Overview of Language disorders- definition and classification based.pptxGowher Nazir
Language Disorders Classification and Definition based on ICD-10 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems) , Classification and definition based on DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)
Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder in which people interpret reality abnormally. Schizophrenia may result in some combination of hallucinations, delusions, and extremely disordered thinking and behavior that impairs daily functioning, and can be disabling
Please find the power point on Management of alcohol withdrawl seizure . I tried to present it on understandable way and all the contents are reviewed by experts and from very reliable references. Thank you
Overview of Language disorders- definition and classification based.pptxGowher Nazir
Language Disorders Classification and Definition based on ICD-10 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems) , Classification and definition based on DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)
Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder in which people interpret reality abnormally. Schizophrenia may result in some combination of hallucinations, delusions, and extremely disordered thinking and behavior that impairs daily functioning, and can be disabling
The risk of cognitive impairment assosiated with congenital deafness in child...MaritLobben
Overall poor performance of cognitive and behavioral skills are predictors of poor language skills and vice versa: we need to realise that language, perception, thought, and problem-solving constitute a continuum of interdependent functions.
Some refer to this as polymodal development of the sensory apparatus, as the developing trend in typically developing individuals (Bailey, 2002).
Sensory input participates not only in a simple additive way but also has a reciprocal influence in that it modulates synergistically the unyielding of neural networks.
This is probably why children with deafness exhibit subtle differences from hearing subjects also in functions that seem far removed from the auditory function, such as visuomotor integration or abstract thinking.
From a neuroscientific perspective, this is an interesting demonstration in relation to the extent of the role of hearing in the building of neural networks that result from sensorimotor exposure and practice.
TIMING MATTERS: HOW TO THINK ABOUT THE EFFECTS OF EARLY EXPERIENCE ON BRAIN...happy-yurikago
These documents were presented by Dr. NATHAN A. FOX, UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND at the session sponsored by The Nippon Foundation, Tokyo, Japan, in the international society for the prevention of child abuse and neglect conference in Nagoya, Japan, on September 14, 2014.
Pat Levitt: Neurodevelopmental Disorder Heterogeneity, Brain Development and ...Beitissie1
In his lecture, Prof. Pat Levitt describes the great heterogeneity of the brain, which makes people different from each other and is a significant challenge to treating people with disabilities.
What lies beneath? Autism Spectrum DisorderVivek Misra
Disturbed patterns of neuronal activity underlying specific types of behavior correlating with specific genetic alleles thus linking gene to brain development to behavior. The programming of various brain networks is genetically modulated during neurodevelopment and mediated through a range of neuropeptides and interacting neurotransmitter systems.
A Call to Action: Improving brain & mental health via digital platforms,...SharpBrains
(Session held at the 2014 SharpBrains Virtual Summit; October 28-30th, 2014)
8:15–9:45am. A Call to Action: Improving brain & mental health via digital platforms, neuroplasticity research and the White House BRAIN initiative
- Dr. Thomas Insel, Director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
- Dr. Adam Gazzaley, Director of UCSF Neuroscience Imaging Center and Co-founder of Akili Interactive Labs
- Dr. Daphne Bavelier, Head of the Brain & Learning Lab at the University of Geneva & U. of Rochester
- Jack Young, Head of Qualcomm Life Fund
- Chair: Alvaro Fernandez, CEO of SharpBrains
Learn more here:
http://sharpbrains.com/summit-2014/agenda/
Running head Advanced behavioral analysis and its successful use .docxjoellemurphey
Running head: Advanced behavioral analysis and its successful use in the treatment of autism 1
Advanced behavioral analysis and its successful use in the treatment of autism 2Advance Behavioral Analysis And Its Successful Use In The Treatment Of Autism
Darin Bullock
Columbia Southern University
Advance Behavioral Analysis and its Successful use in the Treatment of Autism
Fryling, M. J., Wallace, M. D., & Yassine, J. N. (2012). Impact of Treatment Integrity on Intervention Effectiveness. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis , 449-53.
In this article, Fryling et al. proposes that by using Advanced Behavioral Analysis (ABA) in the proper way, the integrity will be maintained and will be more effective. They state “treatment integrity has cogent implications for intervention effectiveness.” They propose that by proper training and understanding of ABA, the integrity can be maintained. Proper use of reinforcements with appropriate behavior showed signs of improvement. They point out that DiGennaro et al. “demonstrated a relation between improved integrity and intervention effectiveness when they compared procedures aimed at improving special educators’ integrity in classrooms.” They proposed that by having effective intervention and integrity, problem behaviors decreased in a classroom setting.
Layne, C. M. (2007). Early Identification of Autism: Impications for Counselors. Journal of Counseling and Development , 110-114.
Layne discusses screening tools and diagnostic assessments used to identify autism in children around the age of 2. Layne also discusses the impact this diagnosis can have on families as well as counselors. She states autism “impairs language, social interactions, and play skills, as well as cognitive and adaptive functioning.” She proposes that 1 out of 166 children will be diagnosed with autism. She proposes and commends the diligence in early diagnosis stating it is more than likely due to the diligence of parents, clinicians, and teachers. Public awareness has helped as well and the fact that either autism is increasing, or clinicians are more apt to diagnose children with autism rather than another developmental disability.
Pulse International. (2012, Aug 14). Early Intervention has considerable impact on reducing symptoms and increasing child's ability to learn new skills.
An article by Pulse International quotes Prof. Mohamed Chetouani at a press conference on Monday, 23 July 2012. The article speaks of warning signs of autism characterized by social symptoms, communications deficits, and repetitive behaviors. The child should then be evaluated by specialized professionals so appropriate treatment can be initialized. The articles states, “Early intervention has considerable impact on reducing symptoms and increasing a child’s ability to learn new skills.” It was proposed that there are items in place to diagnose children with autism after the age of two, but “information on autism in the first two years of life i ...
Teaching Techniques: Neurotechnologies the way of the future (Stotler, 2019)Jacob Stotler
Presenting alternative to drugs from nuerotechnologies and teaching about clinical use of neurothreapy and therapeutic effectiveness of biological aspects of the use of clinical technologies.
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Flu Vaccine Alert in Bangalore Karnatakaaddon Scans
As flu season approaches, health officials in Bangalore, Karnataka, are urging residents to get their flu vaccinations. The seasonal flu, while common, can lead to severe health complications, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.
Dr. Vidisha Kumari, a leading epidemiologist in Bangalore, emphasizes the importance of getting vaccinated. "The flu vaccine is our best defense against the influenza virus. It not only protects individuals but also helps prevent the spread of the virus in our communities," he says.
This year, the flu season is expected to coincide with a potential increase in other respiratory illnesses. The Karnataka Health Department has launched an awareness campaign highlighting the significance of flu vaccinations. They have set up multiple vaccination centers across Bangalore, making it convenient for residents to receive their shots.
To encourage widespread vaccination, the government is also collaborating with local schools, workplaces, and community centers to facilitate vaccination drives. Special attention is being given to ensuring that the vaccine is accessible to all, including marginalized communities who may have limited access to healthcare.
Residents are reminded that the flu vaccine is safe and effective. Common side effects are mild and may include soreness at the injection site, mild fever, or muscle aches. These side effects are generally short-lived and far less severe than the flu itself.
Healthcare providers are also stressing the importance of continuing COVID-19 precautions. Wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing are still crucial, especially in crowded places.
Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting vaccinated. Together, we can help keep Bangalore healthy and safe this flu season. For more information on vaccination centers and schedules, residents can visit the Karnataka Health Department’s official website or follow their social media pages.
Stay informed, stay safe, and get your flu shot today!
Ethanol (CH3CH2OH), or beverage alcohol, is a two-carbon alcohol
that is rapidly distributed in the body and brain. Ethanol alters many
neurochemical systems and has rewarding and addictive properties. It
is the oldest recreational drug and likely contributes to more morbidity,
mortality, and public health costs than all illicit drugs combined. The
5th edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
(DSM-5) integrates alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence into a single
disorder called alcohol use disorder (AUD), with mild, moderate,
and severe subclassifications (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
In the DSM-5, all types of substance abuse and dependence have been
combined into a single substance use disorder (SUD) on a continuum
from mild to severe. A diagnosis of AUD requires that at least two of
the 11 DSM-5 behaviors be present within a 12-month period (mild
AUD: 2–3 criteria; moderate AUD: 4–5 criteria; severe AUD: 6–11 criteria).
The four main behavioral effects of AUD are impaired control over
drinking, negative social consequences, risky use, and altered physiological
effects (tolerance, withdrawal). This chapter presents an overview
of the prevalence and harmful consequences of AUD in the U.S.,
the systemic nature of the disease, neurocircuitry and stages of AUD,
comorbidities, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, genetic risk factors, and
pharmacotherapies for AUD.
MANAGEMENT OF ATRIOVENTRICULAR CONDUCTION BLOCK.pdfJim Jacob Roy
Cardiac conduction defects can occur due to various causes.
Atrioventricular conduction blocks ( AV blocks ) are classified into 3 types.
This document describes the acute management of AV block.
These simplified slides by Dr. Sidra Arshad present an overview of the non-respiratory functions of the respiratory tract.
Learning objectives:
1. Enlist the non-respiratory functions of the respiratory tract
2. Briefly explain how these functions are carried out
3. Discuss the significance of dead space
4. Differentiate between minute ventilation and alveolar ventilation
5. Describe the cough and sneeze reflexes
Study Resources:
1. Chapter 39, Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th edition
2. Chapter 34, Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology, 26th edition
3. Chapter 17, Human Physiology by Lauralee Sherwood, 9th edition
4. Non-respiratory functions of the lungs https://academic.oup.com/bjaed/article/13/3/98/278874
Tom Selleck Health: A Comprehensive Look at the Iconic Actor’s Wellness Journeygreendigital
Tom Selleck, an enduring figure in Hollywood. has captivated audiences for decades with his rugged charm, iconic moustache. and memorable roles in television and film. From his breakout role as Thomas Magnum in Magnum P.I. to his current portrayal of Frank Reagan in Blue Bloods. Selleck's career has spanned over 50 years. But beyond his professional achievements. fans have often been curious about Tom Selleck Health. especially as he has aged in the public eye.
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Introduction
Many have been interested in Tom Selleck health. not only because of his enduring presence on screen but also because of the challenges. and lifestyle choices he has faced and made over the years. This article delves into the various aspects of Tom Selleck health. exploring his fitness regimen, diet, mental health. and the challenges he has encountered as he ages. We'll look at how he maintains his well-being. the health issues he has faced, and his approach to ageing .
Early Life and Career
Childhood and Athletic Beginnings
Tom Selleck was born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. From an early age, he was involved in sports, particularly basketball. which played a significant role in his physical development. His athletic pursuits continued into college. where he attended the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. This early involvement in sports laid a strong foundation for his physical health and disciplined lifestyle.
Transition to Acting
Selleck's transition from an athlete to an actor came with its physical demands. His first significant role in "Magnum P.I." required him to perform various stunts and maintain a fit appearance. This role, which he played from 1980 to 1988. necessitated a rigorous fitness routine to meet the show's demands. setting the stage for his long-term commitment to health and wellness.
Fitness Regimen
Workout Routine
Tom Selleck health and fitness regimen has evolved. adapting to his changing roles and age. During his "Magnum, P.I." days. Selleck's workouts were intense and focused on building and maintaining muscle mass. His routine included weightlifting, cardiovascular exercises. and specific training for the stunts he performed on the show.
Selleck adjusted his fitness routine as he aged to suit his body's needs. Today, his workouts focus on maintaining flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular health. He incorporates low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking, and light weightlifting. This balanced approach helps him stay fit without putting undue strain on his joints and muscles.
Importance of Flexibility and Mobility
In recent years, Selleck has emphasized the importance of flexibility and mobility in his fitness regimen. Understanding the natural decline in muscle mass and joint flexibility with age. he includes stretching and yoga in his routine. These practices help prevent injuries, improve posture, and maintain mobilit
Prix Galien International 2024 Forum ProgramLevi Shapiro
June 20, 2024, Prix Galien International and Jerusalem Ethics Forum in ROME. Detailed agenda including panels:
- ADVANCES IN CARDIOLOGY: A NEW PARADIGM IS COMING
- WOMEN’S HEALTH: FERTILITY PRESERVATION
- WHAT’S NEW IN THE TREATMENT OF INFECTIOUS,
ONCOLOGICAL AND INFLAMMATORY SKIN DISEASES?
- ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ETHICS
- GENE THERAPY
- BEYOND BORDERS: GLOBAL INITIATIVES FOR DEMOCRATIZING LIFE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGIES AND PROMOTING ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE
- ETHICAL CHALLENGES IN LIFE SCIENCES
- Prix Galien International Awards Ceremony
These lecture slides, by Dr Sidra Arshad, offer a quick overview of physiological basis of a normal electrocardiogram.
Learning objectives:
1. Define an electrocardiogram (ECG) and electrocardiography
2. Describe how dipoles generated by the heart produce the waveforms of the ECG
3. Describe the components of a normal electrocardiogram of a typical bipolar leads (limb II)
4. Differentiate between intervals and segments
5. Enlist some common indications for obtaining an ECG
Study Resources:
1. Chapter 11, Guyton and Hall Textbook of Medical Physiology, 14th edition
2. Chapter 9, Human Physiology - From Cells to Systems, Lauralee Sherwood, 9th edition
3. Chapter 29, Ganong’s Review of Medical Physiology, 26th edition
4. Electrocardiogram, StatPearls - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549803/
5. ECG in Medical Practice by ABM Abdullah, 4th edition
6. ECG Basics, http://www.nataliescasebook.com/tag/e-c-g-basics
The prostate is an exocrine gland of the male mammalian reproductive system
It is a walnut-sized gland that forms part of the male reproductive system and is located in front of the rectum and just below the urinary bladder
Function is to store and secrete a clear, slightly alkaline fluid that constitutes 10-30% of the volume of the seminal fluid that along with the spermatozoa, constitutes semen
A healthy human prostate measures (4cm-vertical, by 3cm-horizontal, 2cm ant-post ).
It surrounds the urethra just below the urinary bladder. It has anterior, median, posterior and two lateral lobes
It’s work is regulated by androgens which are responsible for male sex characteristics
Generalised disease of the prostate due to hormonal derangement which leads to non malignant enlargement of the gland (increase in the number of epithelial cells and stromal tissue)to cause compression of the urethra leading to symptoms (LUTS
Title: Sense of Taste
Presenter: Dr. Faiza, Assistant Professor of Physiology
Qualifications:
MBBS (Best Graduate, AIMC Lahore)
FCPS Physiology
ICMT, CHPE, DHPE (STMU)
MPH (GC University, Faisalabad)
MBA (Virtual University of Pakistan)
Learning Objectives:
Describe the structure and function of taste buds.
Describe the relationship between the taste threshold and taste index of common substances.
Explain the chemical basis and signal transduction of taste perception for each type of primary taste sensation.
Recognize different abnormalities of taste perception and their causes.
Key Topics:
Significance of Taste Sensation:
Differentiation between pleasant and harmful food
Influence on behavior
Selection of food based on metabolic needs
Receptors of Taste:
Taste buds on the tongue
Influence of sense of smell, texture of food, and pain stimulation (e.g., by pepper)
Primary and Secondary Taste Sensations:
Primary taste sensations: Sweet, Sour, Salty, Bitter, Umami
Chemical basis and signal transduction mechanisms for each taste
Taste Threshold and Index:
Taste threshold values for Sweet (sucrose), Salty (NaCl), Sour (HCl), and Bitter (Quinine)
Taste index relationship: Inversely proportional to taste threshold
Taste Blindness:
Inability to taste certain substances, particularly thiourea compounds
Example: Phenylthiocarbamide
Structure and Function of Taste Buds:
Composition: Epithelial cells, Sustentacular/Supporting cells, Taste cells, Basal cells
Features: Taste pores, Taste hairs/microvilli, and Taste nerve fibers
Location of Taste Buds:
Found in papillae of the tongue (Fungiform, Circumvallate, Foliate)
Also present on the palate, tonsillar pillars, epiglottis, and proximal esophagus
Mechanism of Taste Stimulation:
Interaction of taste substances with receptors on microvilli
Signal transduction pathways for Umami, Sweet, Bitter, Sour, and Salty tastes
Taste Sensitivity and Adaptation:
Decrease in sensitivity with age
Rapid adaptation of taste sensation
Role of Saliva in Taste:
Dissolution of tastants to reach receptors
Washing away the stimulus
Taste Preferences and Aversions:
Mechanisms behind taste preference and aversion
Influence of receptors and neural pathways
Impact of Sensory Nerve Damage:
Degeneration of taste buds if the sensory nerve fiber is cut
Abnormalities of Taste Detection:
Conditions: Ageusia, Hypogeusia, Dysgeusia (parageusia)
Causes: Nerve damage, neurological disorders, infections, poor oral hygiene, adverse drug effects, deficiencies, aging, tobacco use, altered neurotransmitter levels
Neurotransmitters and Taste Threshold:
Effects of serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) on taste sensitivity
Supertasters:
25% of the population with heightened sensitivity to taste, especially bitterness
Increased number of fungiform papillae
1. Dillen Hartley, OTR/L
An Introduction and Practical
Guide to the Effective
Treatment of Autism with IM
2. Agenda
• Introduction and logistics
• Review of the Research
• Characteristics of an effective IM
training program
• The IM assessment
• Developing an effective IM training
PLAN
• Preparing & setting up the treatment
• IM training and treatment techniques
• Education
• Questions
• Post Test 2
4. The Questions:
Why would I consider
IM for individuals on
the Spectrum?
How do I use IM with
individuals on the
Spectrum?
4
5. 1. Million dollar question: What does the Autistic
brain look like?
How does timing, sensory processing and connectivity relate to Autism
2. What does the research reveal about how IM
might influence the brain with Autism.
Timing, Brain Connectivity and Autism
5
6. Research on
AutismThe bulk of the research related to Autism is
currently focused on genetics, co-morbid
psychiatric conditions, sensory disturbances,
family and support models and treatment
effectiveness.
There are some interesting new
developments that will influence our clinical
decision making and approach to these
individuals:
6
7. 7
Golden nuggets from 2018 research on
Autism• A recent study that looked at all of the previous studies of anxiety that occurred alongside of ASD showed that
adults with ASD were twenty times more likely to have anxiety and much more likely to have obsessive
compulsive disorder (OCD) than people without ASD ¹
• People with Phelan-McDermid Syndrome, or PMS, have autism about 70% of the time2. About 75% of people
with Fragile X syndrome also have ASD3
• Researchers who study the brains of people with autism examined a protein, called FMRP, which is missing in
people with Fragile X syndrome. They looked for this protein in those with a genetic form of autism called
Dup15q Syndrome, as well as those with idiopathic autism and found a correlation4
www.takesbrains.org/signup
• Where are the girls: Hoarding. Children with autism are five times more likely to show hoarding behavior . This
is similar to the hoarding rates in ADHD and OCD36, with girls showing more hoarding behavior than boys do.5
8. More from 2018
• Researchers who examined baby teeth of those with a later autism diagnosis, found that the normal cycles of
zinc and copper, which occur as part of normal biological processes, were altered in ASD6. This might reflect an
inability to detoxify the body following an exposure during pregnancy. However, that theory needs further study.
• In 2018, researchers used brain tissue to show that genes relating to mitochondrial function were altered in
those with autism, and the changes correlated to genes which affect how brain cells, or neurons, are shaped
and function. These findings suggest that mitochondria, which are the targets of environmental factors, may act
by altering the function of autism-related genes7
• In 2018, a new drug received fast track approval to treat the core symptoms of autism: balovaptan50. It
targets the vasopressin receptor. It has been shown to positively influence social interaction and social
communication in adults. 8
• Changes in brainwave patterns, even as early as three months of age, years before a diagnosis, were shown to
be a strong predictor of diagnosis9and even abnormal brainwave patterns without full blown seizure activity is
common in those with ASD10
8
9. Timing and Brain
Connectivity
Integration of Auditory and Visual Information
• Trouble integrating simultaneous auditory & visual sensory information
• This timing deficit hampers development of social, communication &
language skills.
Stevenson et al. (2014) 11
Autism and abnormal Networks
• Autism has been hypothesized to arise from the development of abnormal
neural networks that exhibit irregular synaptic connectivity and abnormal
neural synchronization.
• Toddlers with autism exhibited significantly weaker interhemispheric
synchronization (i.e., weak ‘‘functional connectivity’’ across the two
hemispheres)
• Disrupted cortical synchronization appears to be a notable characteristic of
autism neurophysiology that is evident at very early stages of autism
development.
Dinstein et al. (2011) 12
9
10. 10
Temporal Processing and
Time
Consistent with prior research linking
auditory working memory (Allman et al.,
2011) to temporal processing in
children with ASD, auditory working
memory was a significant predictor in
our study. Across the full sample
(individuals with ASD and those
without) poorer working memory is
associated with worse accuracy and
consistency of time reproduction with
that effect being magnified at younger
ages.
Laurie A. Brenner et al. (2015)13
11. Sensory Processing and White
Matter
“This was the first study to demonstrate
reduced white matter microstructural
integrity in children with SPD. The
disrupted white matter microstructure
predominantly involves posterior cerebral
tracts and correlates strongly with
atypical unimodal and multisensory
integration behavior. These findings
suggest abnormal white matter may
serve as a biological basis for SPD and
may distinguish SPD from overlapping
clinical conditions such as autism and
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.”
Owen JP, et al 201314
11
12. White Matter structure in ASD and
ADHD
“Taken together, our results indicate that white matter
organization was affected by both ASD diagnosis and ASD traits
across diagnoses.”
“While categorical comparisons detected a significant influence of
autism spectrum disorder on multiple white matter metrics in the
corpus callosum, dimensional analyses yielded an association
with autism spectrum disorder symptoms and white matter
metrics in a set of both callosal and other tracts, regardless of
diagnosis.”
Yuta Aoki, MD, PhD, 201715
12
13. IM influence on the
Brain - Autism
IM has an effect on timing
Neural connectivity
IM activates areas of the
brain related to timing
13
14. 14
The IM Hierarchy
Neural
Efficiency
Visual & Auditory
Processing
Attention & Impulse
Control
Emotional & Behavioral
Regulation
Sensory Discrimination
Sensory Registration & Arousal
Cause & Effect
Neural Timing/Internal Clock
16. IM Training Synchronizes Neural
Networks
Repetition reinforces connectivity between these brain structures
16
17. 17
Neural Connectivity
Arcuate fasciculus
• White matter tracts involved in
• language and speech processing
• integration of auditory and motor function
• Arcuate fasciculus connects the frontal motor coordinating and planning centers with the
posterior temporal comprehension and auditory feedback regions.
Wan et al. (2010)
• IM TBI study conducted by Dr. Nelson on Blast Injury victims
The experimental group that received IM training in addition to speech, occupational and
physical therapies showed re-myelenation and re-establishment of important white matter
tracts and neural synchronization of bilateral prefrontal & parietal cortices based upon ERP
data
18. Characteristics of an
Effective IM Training
Program for Autism
• Timing and sequencing
• Repetition reinforces neurological
pathways
• Cause and Effect
• Therapeutic Alliance /
Engagement
• Elicits sensory registration,
discrimination and integration
• Auditory discrimination and
integration
• Functional endurance
• Attention and executive
functioning 18
19. Neuroplasticity
Principles
Neuroplasticity in depended on:
• Frequency
• Intensity
• Duration
• Engagement
To support lasting neurological
changes and improved neural
connectivity and subcortical
processing.
IM dosage goal is at least 1000
repetitions per session at least 2 to 3
times per week.
19
20. 20
Cause and Effect
Principles
• Visual reinforcement of action /
effect
• Repetitive rhythmical nature
supports continued engagement
• Important step in cognitive
awareness
• Draw the child out of an escape
world by focusing on the ball and
21. Therapeutic
Alliance
Principles
• MAKE IT FUN
• Visual feedback and engagement with Hand over
Hand assist elicit the awareness that collaboration
or help can mean greater success (the monkey
climbs the tree)
• Opportunity for taking turns and reciprocal
engagement
• Reinforcement of positive feedback loop
• Structure opportunity for learned imitation
21
22. Sensory Processing and
Discrimination
Principles
• IM incorporates the registration, integration and output of multiple sensory systems.
• The Auditory system hears the reference tone and the feedback
• The Visual system monitors performance and provides information for analysis and is linked to
motivation / reinforcement
• The proprioceptive system is actively engaged by provided feedback on the position of the limbs and
speed of movement needed to engage with switch at the appropriate time.
• The vestibular system constantly making adjustments to the balance and core of the person
depending on their positioning
Multisensory nature and feedback of IM activities ensure sensory input is provided context
in the form of performance and visual reinforcement.
Performance based feedback loops validate and organize sensory discrimination.
22
23. 23
Auditory Processing and
Discrimination
Principles
• Engage the auditory system and
auditory neural pathways through
reference tone at 54 beats per
minute and Guide sounds that
provide feedback based on
performance.
• Visual supports assist in the
validation and discrimination of
guide sounds and which ear the
sounds are gear in. (Left ear early
or before the bell, right ear late or
after the bell)
• Tone awareness and sequencing
elicit language decoding
24. Functional Endurance and Persistence
Principles
Work on “stay ability”
Eliciting postural adjustments
Opportunities for both physical or
cognitive endurance
Increase repetitions and use novelty
items
Grade feedback to build resilience and
behavioral recovery
24
25. Attention and Executive Functioning
• Start with visual attention
• Shifting to auditory attention
• Shifting thoughts form objects to
performance
• Response to feedback eliciting problem
solving
• Activating memory pathways
• Motor planning and organizing thoughts
(away from scripting)
25
26. Assessment Domains
• Sensory Processing
• Behavior Analysis
• Motor / Perceptual
Assessment
• Cognitive ability
• Emotional Awareness
• Family support and
understandingIMPORTANT: Complete discipline specific standardized and clinical
assessments, parent interviews and questionnaires
26
28. Behavior Analysis
Preferred activities / Screen time
Ability to transition between activities
Do they respond to picture schedules
Identify Antecedent rewards
Identify triggers for aggressive or fleeing behavior
28
29. Motor / Perceptual Assessment
• Reflex Assessment
• Visual Screening
• Audiology screening
• Motor performance
assessment
• Limitations to range of motion
• Hand tone / strength
• Ability to imitate movement
patterns
• Can client achieve a position
or movement with verbal only
29
30. Cognitive ability
• Ability to follow directions
(Receptive Language)
• Understanding first this then
that
• Ability to attend to an activity
• Verbal and non-verbal abilities
• Ability to choose between two /
three options
• Understanding of self (name /
body awareness)
• Ability to play appropriately
with toys
30
31. Emotional Awareness
• Status of Autonomic nervous
system
• Fight or flight
• Separation anxiety
• Facial recognition
• Emotional engagement
(Reference)
• Response to playful
obstructions (Frustration
tolerance)
• IMPORTANT: Recovery time
and techniques 31
32. 32
Family Support
• Primary predictor for positive
long term outcome
• Understanding of IM activities
• Ability to be consistent with
home program /
reinforcement
• Resources (Time, finances
and emotional availability)
• IMPORTANT: Expectation
management
33. Assessment Principles
• Prioritize information
• Take Video
• Identify data points for
progress
• Develop a system to data
collection
• Determine strengths
• Visual processing
• Rhythm
• Desire to please
• Motor performance
33
34. 34
Developing an Effective IM Training
Plan
• Keep it simple!!
• Incorporate considerations and
principles based on Assessment
• Establish goals and ways to measure
progress
• Determine environment / equipment
setup
• Determine IM settings – Starting
point
• Select Pre-IM activities
• Select Post-IM activities
• Identify reward system for
participation
35. Sensory Over-Responding (SOR)
Predisposition to respond too much, too soon, or
for too long to sensory stimuli most people find
quite tolerable
Considerations:
• May be sensitive to IM® Touch, Movement or
Sound
• Short duration IM® activities
• Consider visuals / games
• Child may be very sensitive to his performance
• Monitor for signs of over-stimulation
• Flushed cheeks
• Decreased fluency (stuttering)
• A slight tremor
• Sweaty (clammy palms)
• Increasing anxiety about performance
35
36. 36
Sensory Under-Responding (SUR)
Predisposition to be unaware of sensory
stimuli, to have a delay before responding,
responses are muted or responds with less
intensity compared to the average person
Considerations:
• May be hard to motivate
• Have low tone and will fatigue quickly
• Will hit the switches hard (ballistic)
• Can get aggressive when overstimulated
• Great difficulty discriminating information
and usually need a visual cue to assist
with discriminating left from right ear for
feedback
37. Sensory Craver (SC)
Driven to obtain sensory stimulation, but getting
the stimulation results in disorganization and
does not satisfy the drive for more
Considerations:
• Hard to contain and run off with equipment
• “Build” while doing IM® Have a hard time
coming down from IM activities
• Vocal speed will increase with IM®
• Get very frustrated with performance during
IM®
• Respond well to movement rewards for work
• Very manipulative
• Want to “drive the program”
37
38. Behavior
• Choose communication system for
transitions
• Determine Antecedent rewards –
have them ready
• Games or no games
• Determine strategy for termination
of IM activity
• Establish routine and home
program that include rhythmic IM
activities
• Have a plan on how you want to
“Fade” your support
38
39. Motor Performance
• Positioning
• Standing (balance board)
• Seated on your lap
• Seated in Chair (Rifton?)
• Floor or modified environment
• Positioning of IM equipment
• Clapping
• Switch on table
• Trainer hold switch
• Modified switches
• IMPORTANT: If client had dyspraxia
or motor planning challenges,
incorporate those treatment
principles discussed later in the
presentation
39
40. Dyspraxia / Motor Planning
Challenges
What is dyspraxia?
• Individuals with dyspraxia have trouble processing
sensory information properly, resulting in problems
planning and carrying out new motor actions.
• They may have difficulty in forming a goal or idea,
planning a sequence of actions or performing new
motor tasks.
• These individuals are clumsy, awkward, and
accident-prone.
• They have difficulty imitating movements
• Have difficulty demonstrating every day actions like
opening a door
• Can’t assume a position or demonstrate a movement
with demosntration
• They may prefer sedentary activities or try to hide
their motor planning problem with verbalization or
with fantasy play
40
41. 41
Cognition and Language
• Establish communication
system
• Sign language
• Verbal prompting
• Picture schedule
• Determine IM settings and
games
• Select Pre and Post IM
activities
• Determine “During IM”
activities
42. Emotion
• Establish plan to practice self
regulation
• Counting
• Co-regulation
• Deep breaths
• Redirection
• Establish a way for client to ask for
help
• Consider using an object to
interact with the switch (use
yourself)
• Be mentally prepared and Self
regulated yourself
• Leave your phone in your office
42
43. Goals
• {patient} will be able to perform 500
reps of IM training without taking a
break to improve cognitive endurance
for functional performance
• {patient} will demonstrate the ability
to speed up and slow down with IM
activities in response to feedback
100% of attempts without cuing
demonstrating improvement in
cognition and ability to respond to
feedback
• {patient} will demonstrate the ability
to respond to visual / auditory
feedback in IM program without
verbal prompting 20/20 attempts
43
44. Goals Cont.
• {patient} will be able to maintain the
processing speed and problem
solving skills necessary to perform
IM ____ activities maintaining a
score of at least 50 milliseconds
• {patient} will demonstrate the ability
to hit on the IM tempo for 20
consecutive hits when the therapist
withdraws Hand over Hand support
• {patient} will demonstrate the ability
request for help when therapist
withdraws support during IM
activity
• IMPORTANT: Establish discipline
specific functional goals
44
45. Preparing & Setting up the Treatment
Environment
Principles for Environment
• Have your equipment
ready… You don’t want to
wait for your computer to
turn on while your client is
trying to tap the keys to get
to work faster
• Consider covering the
keyboard
• Placement of screen (visual
feedback – games)
• Choose your switch
• Consider lighting
• The room
• The screen intensity
• Remove distracting items 45
46. IM Settings
Recommended Settings
• Adjust Difficulty & SRO settings so that
buzzer is heard less often, making it easier
to process.
• Reference Bell only or Turn down the
volume of the guide sounds so that the ref
tone is the loudest sound he hears to aid
processing.
• Turn on the visual mode to help process
guide sounds & learn to respond to them.
• Difficulty: 300
• Tempo to match client speed
• SRO: 50 – 60 ms
• SPEAKERS initially
46
47. The IM Treatment Program
IM® Training Phases Revisited
Decision Tree
Interview and IM Short
From
Phase 1
Long Form Assessment
Phase 2 (Guide sounds /
Visual)
Phase 3
Unable to assimilate bell Attempt to clap on bell
Attempt to clap on bell
3 Hit Recovery for change in timing tendency
Phase 41000 reps / session, 1 hit recovery
Best Practices
47
48. Treatment Principles
• Don’t stop assessing
• Make sure your room and IM settings are
ready
• Initiate IM activity based on assessment and
planning data
• Implement Pre-IM activities
• Monitor performance with IM and make
adjustments
• Be ready for post IM activities
• Follow motor planning / dyspraxia protocol in
applicable
• Communicate performance with Care-givers
• REMEMBER: Starting in Phase 1
48
49. IM Treatment
INCORPERATE ASSESSMENT AND PLANNING
INFORMATION
• Sensory Processing
• Behavior Analysis
• Motor / Perceptual Assessment
• Cognitive ability
• Emotional Awareness
• Family support and understanding
49
50. 50
IM Treatment
Suitable for all categories
business and personal
presentation
Description
Suitable for all categories
business and personal
presentation
Description
Suitable for all categories
business and personal
presentation
Description
Suitable for all categories
business and personal
presentation
Description
Suitable for all categories
business and personal
presentation
Description
Suitable for all categories
business and personal
presentation
Description
51. Pre-IM activities
Arousal
• Client that has high arousal “Wide
Open”
• Heavy work activities
• Resisted activities
• Animal movements
• Yoga or positioning activities
• Ball pit / climbing activities
• Push and pull activities
• Deep pressure / weighted options
• Client with low arousal (Hard to get
motivated)
• Trampoline
• Swing
• Tickle activities / Tag
• Riding bike / scooter
51
52. Pre-IM activities Cont…..
• Sensory Prep Activities
• Sensory Over-Responder
• Rhythmic activities
• Preferred hand manipulation activities
• Heavy work activities
• Organizing or sorting activities
• Stick to a routine
• Sensory Under-responder
• Activating activities
• Heavy work activities
• Trampoline and swing activities
• FUN
• Activating sensations / snack / smell /
touch
• Sensory Craver
• No movement – go straight into IM
52
53. 53
The Low Functioning Client
• Visual supports and games
• HOH assist
• Cause and effect
• Work on Stay-ability
• Management of frustrations
• Respond to feedback
54. The Rigid, Aggressive and Sensory
Client
• Routine
• Easiest settings
• They don’t like help.. But will
become frustrated
• Good prep activities
• Strong rewards
• Develop cognitive and language
skills
• Emotional supports
54
55. The High Functioning Verbal
Manage sensory
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Develop cognitive
and language skills
Incorporate motor
planning and
executive
functioning skills
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consectetur adipiscing elit.
Aliquam nec congue convallis.
Work on attention
and mental
“shifting”
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consectetur adipiscing elit.
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55
56. Dyspraxia
• Typical in high functioning Autism
• Avoid feedback of any kind:
• Keep guide sounds off
• Avoid verbal cues
• Avoid training visuals & games
• Decrease tempo (48-52 bpm) to find just right
pace where can make circular, rhythmical
movements with greater ease.
• Hand over hand assist, weaning to modeling,
then no cues (your timing must be good) to
facilitate consistent rhythmical movement
• Bilateral imitation tasks with provider
• Decrease cognitive demands
• Gradually increase tempo to 54 bpm then
introduce Phase 2 (guide sounds)
56
57. Dyspraxia Treatment Continued…
IM settings for Phase 2 (guide
sounds ON):
• Adjust Diff to 300
• Turn down volume of Guide, RO,
and SRO guide sounds so they are
lower than the volume of the Ref
Tone
• Gradually adjust Diff to 200 then
100 as performance improves (don’t
rush this)
• Work on larger movements with low
loading
• Focus on success with games vs
scores
• Emphasize success – generalize
confidence and motor patterns in
daily functional tasks
• Structure “just right” challenge
activities after IM®
57
58. 58
Dyspraxia Treatment Continued...
Sequencing for IM foot exercises:
• BEGIN WITH individual R Toe AND L Toe
exercises…HOLD OFF ON both toes
exercise UNTIL MOTOR PLANNING AND
SEQUENCING IS BETTER WITH EACH
individual toe
• Consider bilateral tasks if unable to do both
feet
• Hand-over-hand assistance will be required
– don’t be afraid to do this and set your
repetitions high (5-10-15 min per exercise)
• Reduce the tempo to between 45-52 – just
like hand exercises earlier in training
• Do foot exercises with the client imitating
you
• If balance is an issue, do tasks while seated
to allow for greater focus on timing or allow
the person to hold onto something for
stability (this will be far less distracting)
59. Post IM activities
• Scaffold skills
• Motor planning functional
tasks
• Sensory activities / feeding /
play
• Social activities
• Playground activities
• Board games
• Cognitive activities
• Speech and language
activities
59
61. References
1. Hollocks MJ, Lerh JW, Magiati I, Meiser-Stedman R, Brugha TS. Anxiety and depression in
adults with autism spectrum disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychol
Med. 2018:1-14.
2. De Rubeis S, Siper PM, Durkin A, et al. Delineation of the genetic and clinical spectrum of
Phelan-McDermid syndrome caused by SHANK3 point mutations. Mol Autism. 2018;9:31
3. Abbeduto L, Thurman AJ, McDuffie A, et al. ASD Comorbidity in Fragile X Syndrome: Symptom
Profile and Predictors of Symptom Severity in Adolescent and Young Adult Males. J Autism Dev
Disord. 2018
4. Wegiel J, Brown WT, La Fauci G, et al. The role of reduced expression of fragile X mental
retardation protein in neurons and increased expression in astrocytes in idiopathic and
syndromic autism (duplications 15q11.2-q13). Autism Res.
5. La Buissonniere-Ariza V, Wood JJ, Kendall PC, et al. Presentation and Correlates of Hoarding
Behaviors in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Comorbid Anxiety or Obsessive-
Compulsive Symptoms. J Autism Dev Disord. 2018;48(12):4167-4178.
6. Curtin P, Austin C, Curtin A, et al. Dynamical features in fetal and postnatal zinc-copper
metabolic cycles predict the emergence of autism spectrum disorder.Sci
Adv. 2018;4(5):eaat1293.
7. Schwede M, Nagpal S, Gandal MJ, et al. Strong correlation of downregulated genes related to
synaptic transmission and mitochondria in post-mortem autism cerebral cortex. J Neurodev
Disord. 2018;10(1):18.
61
62. 62
References Cont.
8. Willingham E. Optimism, confusion greet federal fast track for autism drug. Spectrum
News; 2018.
9. Bosl WJ, Tager-Flusberg H, Nelson CA. EEG Analytics for Early Detection of Autism
Spectrum Disorder: A data-driven approach. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):6828.
10. Capal JK, Carosella C, Corbin E, Horn PS, Caine R, Manning-Courtney P. EEG
endophenotypes in autism spectrum disorder. Epilepsy Behav. 2018;88:341-348.
11. Ryan A. Stevenson, Justin K. Siemann, Brittany C. Schneider, Haley E. Eberly, Tiffany
G. Woynaroski, Stephen M. Camarata, and Mark T. Wallace. Multisensory Temporal
Integration in Autism Spectrum Disorders. The Journal of Neuroscience, 2014, January
15, 34(3):691– 697
12. Ilan Dinstein, Karen Pierce, Lisa Eyler, Stephanie Solso, Rafael Malach, Marlene
Behrmann, and Eric Courchesne. Disrupted neural synchronization in toddlers with
autism. Neuron. 2011 June 23; 70(6): 1218–1225
13. Laurie A. Brenner, Vivian H. Shih, Natalie L. Colich, Catherine A. Sugar, Carrie E.
Bearden, and Mirella Dapretto. Time reproduction performance is associated with age
and working memory in high functioning youth with autism spectrum disorder. Autism
Res. 2015 February ; 8(1): 29–37
63. References Cont.
14. Owen JP, Marco EJ, Desai S, et al., with Mukherjee P. Abnormal white matter
microstructure in children with sensory processing disorders. Neuroimage Clin. 2013
Jun 23;2:844-53
15. Yuta Aoki, MD, PhD, Yuliya N. Yoncheva, PhD, Bosi Chen, BA, Tanmay Nath,
PhD, Dillon Sharp, BA, Mariana Lazar, PhD, Pablo Velasco, PhD, Michael P. Milham,
MD, PhD, and Adriana Di Martino, MD. Association of White Matter Structure With
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. JAMA
Psychiatry. 2017 Nov; 74(11): 1120–1128.
63
64. CONTACT US
Call 877-994-6776:
Opt. 3 – Education
imcourses@interactivemetronome.com
Opt. 5 – Technical Support
support@interactivemetronome.com
Opt. 6 – Clinical Support
clinicaled@interactivemetronome.com
Opt. 7 – Marketing
newsletter@interactivemetronome.com
64
There is a hierarchy of skills…. Explain how IM works at each level and helps build a strong processing foundation.
Humans process time over 12 orders of magnitude, ranging from microseconds to hours. Timing is most prominent in the auditory domain and the most sophisticated level of timing & neural network synchronization occurs at the microsecond level for processing the rapidly changing and variable acoustics of speech. The auditory system is absolutely the TIME EXPERT of the brain. On the other end of the time spectrum, we experience daily physiological oscillations (or the turning on & off of brain networks) that regulate sleep and appetite. It was previously thought that certain regions of the brain were responsible for certain functions. However, more recent research and the work of the Connectome Project have lead us to understand that we use multiple neural networks simultaneously to perform communicative, cognitive and motor tasks. White matter tracts function like super highways connecting anterior to posterior regions of the brain and opposite hemispheres in a variety of established neural networks. For optimal performance, information must travel along these super highways efficiently & the various neural networks must fire in perfect synchrony from microseconds to milliseconds to intervals of seconds to minutes to hours. Numerous studies have implicated poor neural timing & synchronization in ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia… and other reading disorders….., Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury, Parkinson's, Tourette's and more…
Just like a well-trained orchestra, different neural networks must start, stop and send signals to the body in perfect synchrony (in milliseconds) in order for a person to accomplish cognitive, speech, language, & motor tasks
competently. Researchers have shown that timing in the brain is not as precise or synchronized as it should be in many conditions, like ADHD, Auditory Processing Disorder, Dyslexia and other reading disorders, Parkinson’s,
Stroke, and Traumatic Brain Injury leading to poor develop or acquired impairments in cognitive & communicative abilities.
The diagram you see on this slide comes from a prominent research paper by Mauk & Buonomano in Annual Review of Neurosciences titled The Neural Basis of Temporal Processing. This paper is very important as it describes how timing & rhythm are inextricably related to attention, sensory processing, auditory processing, speech & motor praxis, language & reading development, visual tracking and behavioral self-regulation.
Humans process information over 12 orders of magnitude. At one end of the spectrum, we process time in microseconds. I can tell which direction a sound came from as the sound waves travel to one ear microseconds before the other. My brain processes that difference in microseconds so that I correctly perceive the direction of sound. On the other extreme, we experience daily physiological oscillations (or the turning on & off of brain networks) that regulate sleep and appetite.
Timing is most prominent in the auditory domain and the most sophisticated level of timing & neural network synchronization occurs at the millisecond level. (REMEMBER MILLISECOND LEVEL). As we get into more of the research, you will see that millisecond jitter or variability in motor timing & the perception of timed elements of speech often leads to developmental and acquired impairments in skills like: attention, cognitive processing speed, working memory, executive function, phonological processing, reading, language, and comprehension.
In recent years we have learned that the brain is much more plastic than previously thought, and that the brain can be shaped & changed far into adulthood or years after an acquired injury as long as the proper training and interventions are employed. Research shows that synchronization of brain networks is a skill that can be improved with specific practice for millisecond timing. So, you can think of Interactive Metronome as a bottom-up approach to SLP service delivery. Incorporating training for millisecond timing & rhythm into your treatment plan will lead to better and faster treatment outcomes. Interactive Metronome should be used as an adjunct to traditional SLP interventions, not as a replacement. By improving foundational skills like attention, processing, executive functions, & praxis your clients will benefit more from your other interventions. Interactive Metronome is a bottom approach to SLP service delivery.
Not only is Interactive Metronome fun and engaging, it is objective & effective. Today we will discuss IM research as it pertains to SLP clinical practice and how improving synchronicity & decreasing jitter or variability in the timing of neural networks facilitates speech, language, pragmatic & cognitive treatment outcomes. I strongly encourage you to visit our website if you are interested in reading more about the studies presented here or any of the other research pertaining to other professional disciplines. Go to www.interactivemetronome.com and click on SCIENCE. Perhaps nothing is as powerful as SEEING how the Interactive Metronome was incorporated into clinical practice and the life-changing results achieved. So be sure to view the unsolicited case studies submitted to us by clinicians like you. These can be found on our website by clicking on SUCCESS STORIES.
(go thru this slide quickly)…summarize: IM training improves the integrity and efficiency of communication along white matter tracts, improving communication and synchronization of neural signals between critical neural networks. This is the Segway to the IM Specific research presented on the next slides.
Pre and post electrocortical measurements were also taken during this study and results will be published in the near future. The experimental group
that received IM training in addition to speech, occupational and physical therapies showed re-myelenation and re-establishment of important white matter tracts and neural synchronization of bilateral prefrontal & parietal cortices based upon ERP data. Baseline ERP data showed that the soldiers lacked important white matter connections and synchronous firing of neural networks as a result of brain trauma which contributed to persistent cognitive impairments. Additionally, brain networks for attention, cognitive processing, working memory, and executive functions were firing more synchronously following IM training which contributed to the improved behavioral performance we see on 21 of 26 standardized measures. Another very interesting finding
was that the soldiers that received ONLY speech-occupational -and physical therapies (or treatment as usual) showed further decline on this direct biological measurement.
Sensory Over-Responsivity
Individuals with sensory over-responsivity are more sensitive to sensory stimulation than most people. Their bodies feel sensation too easily or too intensely. They might feel as if they are being constantly bombarded with information. Consequently, these people often have a “fight or flight” response to sensation, e.g. being touched unexpectedly or loud noise, a condition sometimes called “sensory defensiveness.” They may try to avoid or minimize sensations, e.g. withdraw from being touched or cover their ears to avoid loud sounds
Sensory Under-Responsivity
Individuals who are under-responsive to sensory stimuli are often quiet and passive, disregarding or not responding to stimuli of the usual intensity available in their sensory environment. They may appear withdrawn, difficult to engage and or self-absorbed because they do not detect the sensory input in their environment. Their under-responsivity to tactile and deep pressure input may lead to poor body awareness, clumsiness or movements that are not graded appropriately. These children may not perceive objects that are too hot or cold or they may not notice pain in response to bumps, falls, cuts, or scrapes
Sensory Craving
Individuals with this pattern actively seek or crave sensory stimulation and seem to have an almost insatiable desire for sensory input. They tend to be constantly moving, crashing, bumping, and/or jumping. They may “need” to touch everything and be overly affectionate, not understanding what is “their space” vs. “other’s space.” Sensory seekers are often thought to have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). A key factor with Sensory Craving is that when the individual receives more input it does not regulate him/her; in fact, those with true craving disorders become disorganized with additional stimulation.
It is very difficult if not impossible for a person with motor planning and sequencing impairment to achieve SRO hits and bursts - they may achieve them randomly, but cannot target SRO hits effectively – their body responds randomly to volitional motor commands.
It would be counterproductive to encourage a person with this impairment to target SRO hits or to have him complete IM games and exercises that emphasize SRO hits and bursts to be successful!
Don’t use score as a reward and don’t discuss score
BEGIN WITH individual R Toe AND L Toe exercises…HOLD OFF ON both toes exercise UNTIL MOTOR PLANNING AND SEQUENCING IS BETTER WITH EACH individual toe.
IF Toes ARE REALLY AWEFUL, YOU MIGHT CONSIDER DOING BILATERAL TASKS FIRST TO GET BILATERAL HEMISPHERIC COMMUNICATION GOING. Hand over hand assistance will be required – don’t be afraid to do this and set your repetitions high (5-10-15 min per exercise).
· Turn guide sounds off initially (even though guide sounds may be ON for the hands, it is not yet appropriate for the feet until the dyspraxia is remediated)
Reduce the tempo to between 45-52 if necessary....you are looking for movement to become easier, less hesitant, better sequenced..so strike a balance between speed of the metronome and quality of movement..some individuals only need the tempo reduced to 52 to accomplish better motor planning and sequencing.
Have the person imitate you as you step on the foot trigger on one beat, then off the trigger on the next beat, then on the trigger on the next beat, then off the trigger on the next beat....rather than tapping. When motor planning problems are present (and even impulsivity), it is much easier to regulate timing with a stepping pattern instead of tapping.
If balance is an issue, do tasks while seated to allow for greater focus on timing or allow the person to hold onto something for stability (this will be far less distracting)
Gradually work toward stepping onto the foot trigger on each beat (instead of every other beat), still with the person imitating you.
Gradually work toward tapping the Toe on the trigger on each beat, incorporating the hip in the movement so that the body is rocking onto the trigger (instead of isolating the ankle and foot in tapping)... The person may need you to have your hands on his hips, facilitating this rocking motion....if motor planning problems, he may not be able to incorporate so many joints in the task (hips, knee).
Do lots of repetition (e.g. set tasks for 5-10-15 minutes at a time) with breaks in between tasks as needed to remediate the motor planning problem. As the person works at this slower tempo at a high # of repetitions, you will literally see and the person will feel the movement become easier and more fluid. That is when you will gradually increase the tempo back to 54.