Neuroplasticity-based therapy for motor development in Essex

Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) is an innovative therapeutic technique that improves automatic postural responses and promotes progress towards developmental milestones. At Kids' Therapy Works, our DMI-trained physiotherapists use this evidence-based approach to help children with motor delays achieve functional movements and reach their developmental potential.

What is Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI)?

Dynamic Movement Intervention is a specialised physiotherapy technique that stimulates neuroplasticity to facilitate new neuronal connections and development of motor milestones. The goal of DMI is to provide a specific active motor response from the child to a defined dynamic exercise.

DMI works by challenging children's postural control systems through carefully designed exercises that require automatic responses. This approach helps develop the foundational motor skills necessary for functional activities like sitting, crawling, standing, and walking.

How DMI works

Neuroplasticity activation

DMI exercises stimulate the brain's ability to form new neural pathways, particularly important for children with neurological conditions. By providing specific challenges to the motor system, DMI encourages the development of automatic postural responses.

Progressive approach

Treatment begins with exercises appropriate to the child's current abilities and gradually increases in complexity. This systematic progression ensures safe advancement whilst continuously challenging the motor system.

Functional focus

Unlike traditional exercises, DMI focuses on developing automatic responses that translate directly into functional activities. Children learn movements they can use in daily life, play, and developmental activities.

Who benefits from DMI?

Children diagnosed with motor delays benefit from this specialised approach, including:

Neurological conditions

• Cerebral Palsy - improving postural control and movement patterns

• Acquired brain injury - rebuilding motor connections and responses

• Hypotonia (low muscle tone) - developing strength and postural stability

Genetic conditions

• Down Syndrome - enhancing motor development and coordination

• Genetic disorders affecting movement and development

• Chromosomal conditions impacting motor skills

Developmental challenges

• Global developmental delay - addressing multiple areas of motor function

• Motor coordination difficulties - improving movement quality and control

• Postural control problems - building foundational stability skills

What DMI focuses on

Core motor skills

• Gross motor skills development and refinement

• Alignment and postural control for functional activities

• Range of motion maintenance and improvement

• Balance reactions and automatic responses

Movement quality

• Functional movements that translate to daily activities

• Modifying abnormal patterns of movement

• Gradual progression towards age-appropriate milestones

• Global development addressing the whole child

Our DMI treatment approach

Comprehensive assessment

Our DMI-trained physiotherapists conduct detailed evaluations to identify each child's specific needs, current motor abilities, and potential for development. This assessment guides the creation of individualised treatment programmes.

Active participation approach

DMI requires active engagement from children, making treatment sessions interactive and engaging. Children learn to produce automatic responses rather than relying on passive movements.

Individualised programmes

Each DMI programme is tailored to the child's current abilities and developmental goals. Exercises are designed to challenge specific motor systems whilst remaining achievable and motivating.

What to expect from DMI therapy

Initial consultation

Your child's first DMI session includes a comprehensive motor assessment and discussion of developmental goals. We explain how DMI works and demonstrate exercises appropriate for your child's current abilities.

Treatment sessions

DMI sessions involve specific exercises designed to challenge your child's postural control and motor responses. Sessions are typically up to 60 minutes and focus on active participation and gradual progression.

Home programme support

We provide guidance on activities that can support DMI progress between sessions. Parents receive training on safe techniques and appropriate progressions.

Progress monitoring

Regular assessment ensures exercises remain appropriately challenging and that children continue to make progress towards their developmental milestones.

Why choose Kids' Therapy Works for DMI?

Specialist training and experience

Our physiotherapists have completed formal DMI training and have extensive experience using this technique with children with various motor development challenges.

Paediatric expertise

We understand how DMI principles apply specifically to children's developing motor systems and adapt techniques appropriately for different ages and abilities.

Holistic approach

DMI is integrated with other therapies when beneficial, ensuring comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of your child's development.

Family-centred care

We work closely with families to ensure DMI programmes fit your lifestyle and support your child's broader developmental goals.

Research and evidence

DMI is based on current understanding of neuroplasticity and motor learning principles. Research demonstrates that intensive, task-specific training can promote significant improvements in motor function for children with neurological conditions.

The technique has shown particular promise for children with cerebral palsy, helping them achieve motor milestones previously thought unattainable. Studies indicate that DMI can lead to meaningful improvements in gross motor function and quality of life.

Getting started with DMI

DMI is available at our Copford (Colchester) clinic, with potential for some techniques to be adapted for home visits. This specialised therapy requires appropriate equipment and space, making clinic-based treatment most effective.

If your child has been diagnosed with a condition affecting motor development, or if you're concerned about delayed motor milestones, DMI may be beneficial. Our team can assess whether this approach is suitable for your child's specific needs and goals.

Common questions about DMI

Is DMI suitable for all children with motor delays?

DMI is most effective for children who can actively participate in exercises and have some capacity for motor learning. Our assessment determines suitability for each individual child.

How long does DMI treatment take?

Treatment duration varies depending on the child's condition, age, and individual response. Some children show progress within weeks, while others benefit from longer-term programmes.

Can DMI be combined with other therapies?

Yes, DMI often works well alongside other physiotherapy techniques, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, providing comprehensive developmental support.

Ready to explore DMI for your child?

Contact Kids' Therapy Works on 01206 212 849 to discuss whether Dynamic Movement Intervention could benefit your child's motor development. Our DMI-trained physiotherapists are here to help your child reach their movement potential.