The Therapressure brush is the sensory brush designed by Patricia Wilbarger. Love larger grip for brushing program, makes it easier to hold. The brain must organize all of our sensations if a person is to move and learn and behave in a productive manner. Along with this might possibly be difficulties in movement, coordination and sensing where. The Wilbarger brushing protocol is a therapeutical program that was developed by Patricia Wilbarger, a well known occupational therapist. Some may jokingly refer to her as the guru of OT (occupational therapy)! This program was designed to help those with sensory processing disorders.

Patricia Wilbarger Brushing Program
Patricia Wilbarger Brushing Program
Patricia Wilbarger Brushing Programmer
Patricia Wilbarger Brushing Protocol
Patricia Wilbarger Brushing Programme

Therapeutic Brushing Techniques

The Wilbarger Deep Pressure and Proprioceptive Technique (DPPT) & Oral Tactile Technique (OTT)

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 is 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.

Based on the theory of Sensory Integration, the DPPT uses a prescriptive method of providing stimulation to help the mind-brain-body self-organize. Patricia Wilbarger and her daughter Julia Wilbarger, MS, OTR offer workshops for professionals who wish to use these techniques in practice. Please note: training is absolutely necessary before attempting to use this technique in practice. Use requires a trained therapist otherwise harmful or ineffective influences may be the result.

Some of the benefits of the DPPT may include:

An improved ability to transition between various daily activities
An improvement in the ability to pay attention
A decreased fear and discomfort of being touched (tactile defensiveness)
An increase in the ability of the central nervous system to use information from the peripheral nervous system more effectively, resulting in enhanced movement coordination, functional communication, sensory modulation, and hence, self-regulation.

The Protocol
The DPPT uses a specific pattern of stimulation delivered using a special type of brush and gentle joint compressions. It is believed to facilitate the coordination of mind-brain-body processes in a manner that influences positive change. It is applied every two hours when first started, and then usually at a decreased amount, which is specified by the trained therapist, who collaborates with the family. However, the DPPT protocol may be used between these scheduled two-hour sessions when a person becomes overwhelmed, triggered, when waking up after having nightmares/night terrors, and before and/or after difficult transitions or situations.

The Brushing Step: A Specific Brush is Required
The DPPT requires the use of a special, soft, plastic surgical brush and no other kind. This brush is believed to be the most effective for the delivery of the specific type of stimulation to the nerve endings of the skin that is required by this protocol. The brushing portion of the DPPT applies very firm pressure, which begins at the arms and works down toward the feet. The stomach and chest areas are avoided due to the potential to influence the urge to vomit or urinate when applied over these areas. People may initially find it aversive, particularly those with sensory defensiveness. However, over time it is often much more readily accepted and may become pleasing as the system habituates. Generally, within a few sessions, it becomes a pleasurable experience. When for any reason it is not preferable to use touch methods with people, they can be taught to apply these techniques to themselves.

The Joint Compression Step
The joint compression portion of this protocol also requires a very specific pattern of application, using a ten-count repetition of light pressure. Self-administration of joint compression may also be obtained by engaging in jumping-jacks, push-ups, a routine consisting of various isometric exercises, etc.

The Oral Swipe
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.

Important Note: None of these techniques should ever be painful or cause physical damage

The Wilbargers promote the use of these techniques as part of one’s sensory diet. Further, the DPPT may be implemented as one of the sensory modulation modalities used in your child’s sensory diet.

References:

Wilbarger, P. & Wilbarger, J. (1991). Sensory Defensiveness in Children Aged 2-12: An Intervention Guide for Parents and Other Caretakers, Avanti Educational Programs: Santa Barbara, CA.

Wilbarger, P. (1984, September). Planning an adequate sensory diet – application of sensory processing theory during the first year of life. Zero to Three, 7-12. Casio ctk 720 midi driver for mac.

Wilbarger, J. & Wilbarger, P. (2002). Wilbarger approach to treating sensory defensiveness and clinical application of the sensory diet. Sections in alternative and complementary programs for intervention, In Bundy, A.C., Murray, E.A., & Lane, S. (Eds.). Sensory Integration: Theory and Practice, 2nd Ed. F.A. Davis, Philadelphia, PA.

Are you confused about the Wilbarger Brushing Protocol and who can do it.. OT's, parents, other care givers? Whose allowed? What the protocol says? One OT asked on our help line to clarify this. Well, here's the answer!

In the book: 'Sensory Defensiveness in Children Aged 2-12, An Intervention Guide for Parents and Other Caretakers' By Patricia Wilbarger, MEd, OTR, FAOTA and Julia Leigh Wilbarger, MS, OTR, published by Avanti Educational Programs, copyright 1991,

On page 2, they state..

Purpose of the Guide:

This guide presents a description of sensory defensiveness and an overview of its treatment. This booklet is designed to be used with the guidance of an occupational or physical therapist who has gained specialization in treating sensory defensiveness in children aged 2-12, through continuing education and clinical practice.'

For Parents: excerpt..'It is hoped that this guide will provide basic information parents need to understand the diagnosis and treatment of sensory defensiveness in their child between the ages of 2-12. It will answer some of the questions most frequently asked about sensory defensiveness and give some examples of treatment strategies.'

For Other Family Members: excerpt.. 'Understanding the nature of sensory defensiveness will help families develop appropriate relationships and free family members to assist in child's treatment.'

For Other Caretakers: excerpt..' Foster families, baby-sitters, teachers, and others who have contact with the child with sensory defensiveness need to have a clear understanding of the nature of this problem. .. The intervention techniques recommended here are much more effective if everyone is able to help.'

For Professionals: Occupational Therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists and other health professionals who have specialized in treating sensory defensiveness need to communicate effectively and quickly with the caretakers of the children they diagnose. This guide is structured as a way to share consistent information (on pressure brushing and joint compressi

Patricia Wilbarger Brushing Program