Wilbarger Therapy Brush, 2 Pack – Therapressure Brush for Occupational Therapy for Sensory Brushing – Designed by Patricia Wilbarger – Use as Part of The Wilbarger Brushing Protocol

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The Wilbarger Deep Pressure and Proprioceptive Technique (DPPT) & Oral Tactile Technique (OTT), which in the past was referred to as the Wilbarger Brushing Protocol, refers to the specific sensory modulation techniques developed by Patricia Wilbarger, MEd, OTR, FAOTA. Patricia Wilbarger is an occupational therapist and a clinical psychologist who also known for coining the phrase “sensory diet.” She is a leading expert in the area of sensory defensiveness. Simply stated, sensory defensiveness is the over-responsiveness of the protective responses of the nervous system. She is a co-founder of Sensory Integration International, the AVANTI camp, and has published numerous books, articles and videos. She lectures internationally on the topics of sensory defensiveness and sensory integration. Some of these publications, the brushes used in the DPPT protocol, and a list of courses with Patricia Wilbarger can be found at Child Development Media, Inc. By rubbing the brush across the skin, the pressure input targets touch receptors and helps a child organize his/her central nervous system. You can always provide joint compression and/or joint traction independent of the brushing, and this can be achieved through a variety of activities. A proportion of the session is usually based around foundation skills of neurodevelopment, gross motor and fine motor skills. I have used the brushing program personally, and in practice during the past 25 years. It has worked for some, but not all. Personally I found it difficult to keep up with regimen of brushing.

Wilbarger Therapy Brush - 6 Pack | Deep Pressure Calming Wilbarger Therapy Brush - 6 Pack | Deep Pressure Calming

Thanks for reading our blog! A surgical brush is recommended as the bristles are stiff and do not bend easily, providing the right amount of sensory input on the skin. Let us know if you have any other questions. In my clinical opinion, the therapeutic benefit of the brushing protocol is the deep pressure touch which is involved during the process. So why not just incorporate full body deep pressure touch throughout the day instead? It is very well accepted, enjoyed, and can easily be added to so many daily activities throughout the day. The best part is deep pressure touch is the most accepted form of sensory input and is regulating, organizing, and calming or alerting for the brain. Toss in a little joint traction and joint compression via wheelbarrow walking, jumping, hopping, hanging from a bar, etc. and you are good to go! Based on the theory of Ayres Sensory Integration, the DPPT, or sensory brushing technique, uses a prescribed method of providing stimulation through pressure touch massage, to help the mind-brain-body self-organize. The final component of this protocol is an oral swipe, used for people with oral defensiveness. This step is sometimes omitted due to hygiene and/or safety concerns, as it requires fingers in the mouth. However, people can be taught to do step to themselves.Stay away from the face when brushing. It is too sensitive an area. Instead use a washcloth, or warmed lotion

Sensory Brushing - The OT Toolbox

thanks molly shaw Wilson for this great information. please I want to find out if it possible or appropriate to use one therapy brush for more than one child? The brushing is supposed to be followed up with joint compressions that provide proprioceptive input to a child's joints. Who Should use the Brushing Technique for Autism and SPD?Sensory brushes, like any sensory tool can have detrimental side effects. For this reason, it’s important to consult an occupational therapy professional trained in use of these tools. The Wilbarger Protocol is a deep pressure technique used with children who have sensory defensiveness. The purpose is to alter and normalise sensory processing which will assist with the child’s ability to function within the school or home setting and impact on the child’s social and work behaviours. A sensory brush, or therapy brush, is used as part of the Wilbarger brushing protocol, something that an occupational therapist, trained in sensory integration techniques, may prescribe as part of a home sensory program for your child. According to Patricia Wilbarger, "the high density of the bristles make it an ideal brush for the body." For specific instructions on brushing therapy it's best to speak with an occupational therapist or therapist trained in the Wilbarger Protocol. Can increase the ability of the nervous system to use information from the senses more effectively, i.e. speech and/or motor.