Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT)
Specialised treatment helping children with hemiplegia reach their full potential
Constraint Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) offers a focused, evidence-based approach that helps children with hemiplegia improve the function of their affected arm and hand. At Kids' Therapy Works, our experienced paediatric physiotherapists work with families across Essex to create CIMT programmes that fit your child's needs and your family's routine.
Through intensive, play-based activities combined with gentle constraint of the stronger hand, CIMT encourages children to use their affected arm more frequently. This increased use helps strengthen neural connections in the brain and leads to significant improvements in hand and arm function. Most importantly, CIMT helps children feel more confident about what their bodies can achieve.
What is CIMT and how does it help your child?
CIMT is a therapeutic approach specifically designed for children with hemiplegia—a condition affecting movement on one side of the body. The therapy works by gently restricting the use of your child's stronger hand or arm, encouraging them to use their affected side more frequently during play and daily activities.
How CIMT helps your child develop
Strengthens neural pathways: Regular use of the affected arm helps build stronger connections in the brain, supporting improved function over time.
Improves everyday skills: Children often see improvements in activities like reaching for toys, using utensils, getting dressed, and playing games.
Builds confidence: As your child discovers new abilities with their affected hand, they often become more willing to use it in different situations.
Supports independence: Enhanced arm and hand function helps children participate more fully in school, play, and family activities.
CIMT programmes at Kids' Therapy Works
We offer several CIMT programme options to suit your child's needs and your family's circumstances. Following a comprehensive assessment, our physiotherapist will recommend the most appropriate programme for your child. Constraint may be prescribed using a removable mitt or a non-removable cast with an option to purchase a mitt for ongoing therapy at the end of the block.
Traditional intensive programme
Duration: 2 weeks of CIMT + 1 week of bimanual therapy
Schedule: 3 hours of clinic-based therapy per day
Best for: Children who can manage longer therapy sessions
This programme provides maximum practice opportunities and often leads to significant improvements. Your child works with our physiotherapists on engaging activities designed to develop their affected hand skills. A complimentary CIMT mitt is provided for ongoing practice at home.
Modified programmes
We offer various modified CIMT programmes. These programmes may involve a combination of clinic, home and school based therapy. Constraint may be prescribed using a removable mitt or a non-removable cast with an option to purchase a mitt for ongoing therapy at the end of the block.
Modified Programme 1: cast wearing
3 weeks of CIMT, 2 hours clinic based therapy per day with 1 week of Bimanual Therapy, 2 hours clinic based therapy per day.
Modified Programme 2: cast wearing
2 weeks of CIMT, 3 hours clinic based therapy per day with 1 week of Bimanual Therapy, 2 hours clinic based therapy per day.
Modified Programme 3: cast wearing
2 weeks of CIMT, 2 hours clinic based therapy with 1 week Bimanual Therapy, 2 hours clinic based therapy for 1 week
A home exercise program will be designed for 1 hour home based therapy daily.
Modified Programme 4: as per hourly charges
Personalised programmes of clinic and home based therapy, designed for between 2-8 weeks using a removable mitt.
What's included in all programmes
Comprehensive initial assessment and goal setting
All therapy sessions with qualified paediatric physiotherapists
Casting materials or mitt provision
Detailed progress reports for families and schools
Home exercise programme guidance
Family training and support throughout
What to expect during your child's CIMT journey
Initial assessment and planning
Our physiotherapist will spend time with you and your child to:
Understand your child's current abilities and challenges
Discuss your family's goals and priorities
Assess which CIMT programme would be most suitable
Explain the process clearly so you feel prepared
Set realistic, achievable goals that matter to your family
During the CIMT programme
Daily therapy sessions: Your child engages in fun, play-based activities designed to challenge their affected hand through age-appropriate games and tasks that feel enjoyable rather than clinical.
Constraint application: Either a lightweight, colourful cast that your child can personalise, or a comfortable, removable mitt. Regular monitoring ensures comfort and safety.
Family involvement: Regular updates on progress, training on home support strategies, and celebration of achievements, however small.
After completing CIMT
Bimanual therapy week: Focus on using both hands together effectively and integrating improved affected hand skills into everyday activities.
Ongoing support: Home exercise programme, follow-up appointments, advice on school integration, and long-term planning for continued progress.
Who can benefit from CIMT?
CIMT can be particularly helpful for children with:
Conditions we support
Hemiplegia from various causes: Stroke, brain injury, cerebral palsy, brachial plexus injury
Ages 2-18 years: Programmes adapted for different developmental stages
Motivated children: Those who show some voluntary movement and can participate in structured activities
Assessment for suitability
Our comprehensive assessment considers:
Your child's current hand and arm function
Cognitive and attention abilities
Social and emotional readiness
Family circumstances and support available
Previous therapy experiences and responses
Our CIMT expertise
At Kids' Therapy Works, our physiotherapists bring extensive experience in delivering CIMT programmes:
Specialist qualifications
CIMT certification: Formal training in evidence-based CIMT delivery
Paediatric expertise: Specialised knowledge of child development and motivation
Family-centred approach: Training in supporting families throughout the process
Ongoing education: Regular updates on latest research and techniques
Evidence-based practice
Our CIMT programmes are based on current research and demonstrate:
Improved hand function: Measurable improvements in affected hand use and skill
Enhanced daily living skills: Better ability to participate in everyday activities
Increased confidence: Children feeling more positive about their abilities
Long-term benefits: Improvements often maintained over time with appropriate support
Supporting your child's success
Making CIMT enjoyable
We believe therapy should be engaging for children through play-based approaches, incorporating individual interests, age-appropriate challenges, and regular celebration of progress.
Family partnership
Your involvement is crucial to success through home strategies, positive reinforcement, practical support, and long-term planning for maintaining and building on gains.
Integration with daily life
CIMT works best when integrated into your child's routine through school collaboration, activity adaptation, building social confidence, and planning for continued development.
Getting started with CIMT
Taking the first step towards CIMT support for your child is straightforward:
Contact our team on 01206 212 849 to discuss your child's needs
Arrange an assessment to evaluate suitability and programme options
Meet with our physiotherapist to understand the process and ask questions
Plan together the best approach for your child and family
What to bring to your assessment
Information about your child's condition and any previous therapy
Current goals and priorities for your child's development
Questions or concerns about the CIMT process
Your child's favourite toys or activities to help them feel comfortable
Why choose Kids' Therapy Works for CIMT?
Specialist expertise: Trained CIMT practitioners with extensive paediatric experience
Family-focused approach: We work in partnership with families to ensure programmes fit your circumstances
Flexible programmes: Multiple options to suit different children and family needs
Comprehensive support: From initial assessment through to long-term follow-up
Essex locations: Clinics in Essex serving families in the south-east
Evidence-based practice: Programmes based on latest research and best practice guidelines
CIMT can be a transformative experience for children with hemiplegia, helping them discover new abilities and build confidence in their physical skills. Our experienced team understands that every child is unique, and we work closely with families to ensure that CIMT programmes are tailored to individual needs, interests, and circumstances.
Ready to explore whether CIMT could help your child? Contact our experienced physiotherapy team today to learn more about our programmes and discover how this evidence-based approach could make a difference in your child's life.