CATORIS CP FACT OF THE WEEK: Another therapy idea for our CP families. We have not done this, but have been waiting to see the results from this study. It just finished up a little bit ago. Hand Arm Bilateral Intensive Therapy (HABIT): This type of therapy is being put through various studies at Columbia University during the 2013 calendar year. The therapy concentrates on bimanual therapy, or therapy teaching both hands to work together. It’s an intensive program; much like ACQUIREc at the University of Alabama-Birmingham, however, instead of the constraint therapy components, the theory of HABIT is the child will learn to to use both hands, working together, without the need of constraints. HABIT also believes, even though constraint therapy has been medically proven to be beneficial, children must still learn to coordinate the use of both hands after completing constraint therapy. In terms of the working theory behind HABIT, Columbia University received the 2007 Gayle G. Arnold Award for best scientific paper based on their research of HABIT and the University is also conducting a study through funding from the Thrasher Research Foundation to test this form of therapy. The group is also testing if HABIT is more beneficial separate or in coordination with CIT. In 2012, Columbia University was continuing conducting new studies to test their theories regarding the potential for HABIT. To find additional information about this form of therapy, go to tc.columbia.edu/centers/cit/default.asp?id=HABIT.
Posted on: Mon, 21 Oct 2013 19:18:39 +0000