Suggestions to Decrease Hypertoncity

Gentle rocking and rhythmic techniques that emphasize slow vestibular stimulation

• a rocking chair
• swing
• slow rhythmic rolling a.) prone “c” on stomach over therapy ball or large bolster b.) slowly rock forward and backward
• *Pre-cautions:
  • always stabilize the cervical spine
  • be careful of feeding tubes
  • only short periods – prolonged head down will result in a drop in blood pressure
• sidelying- place one hand on child’s shoulder and the other hand on child’s hip gently push shoulder forward while pulling hip backward- then reverse the direction
• Try 5-10 minutes- very soothing
• slow- steady rhythmic movement of the limbs

Positioning

• prone and side lying are very calming
  a.) if side lying- support back with a rolled towel or blanket- inclined slightly
  b.) if child is supine- have head slightly flexed- may improve breathing and decrease coughing head extension has the tendency to increase hyper extension, extraneous movements and other reflex patterns

Stroking- not brushing

• use flat hand- firm pressure- slow strokes just lateral to the vertebral column cervical to/from sacral regions for 3-5 minutes
• avoid light and unexpected touch
• hug but don’t tickle
• massage soles of feet and palms of hands

Environment

• neutral warmth- warmth that just maintains body temperature without being too hot or too cold- very calming
• avoid overheating- may have rebound effects
• modify voice- quieter, lower tones- slower
• watch out for perfumes and other scents
  • *lavender often is a relaxant
• quiet, peaceful
• music – try Mozart, bird sounds, whale & dolphins