Leading Edge Therapy
Constraint Therapy or Bimanual Training
Ideal for children with hemiparesis who primarily use only one arm. Two proven approaches — individualized to your child's needs.
Helping Children Use Both Hands
Hemiparesis — weakness or reduced function on one side of the body — often leads children to rely almost exclusively on their stronger arm. Over time, this pattern can limit the development of the weaker limb.
Both Constraint Therapy and Bimanual Training are evidence-based approaches designed to encourage greater use of the weaker arm and hand. Dr. Castle will evaluate your child and recommend the approach — or combination — most likely to produce meaningful results.
CIMT — Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy
Constraint Therapy
If your child mainly uses one arm, they may benefit from constraint therapy — where a sling or soft cast gives the stronger arm a "vacation," encouraging the brain to recruit and strengthen the weaker side.
Your child can participate in a structured program of fun activities — either in group sessions alongside other children or in individual therapy — specifically designed to improve use of the weaker arm.
Constraint therapy is most effective when delivered intensively over a focused period, and we tailor the program to your child's age, tolerance, and functional goals.
Call 678.367.2382 to Schedule
Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Training (HABIT)
Bimanual Training
Some children who exclusively use one arm may benefit more from structured therapy using activities that require both hands working together — rather than restraining the stronger arm.
Bimanual training has been shown to be effective in improving use of the weaker hand in functional, everyday tasks such as dressing, eating, writing, and play.
Activities are carefully graded to require meaningful contribution from both hands, progressively building coordination, strength, and confidence in the weaker limb.
Which Approach Is Right for My Child?
Constraint Therapy (CIMT)
Best for children who can tolerate wearing a sling or cast and benefit from intensive, focused practice with the weaker arm in isolation.
Bimanual Training (HABIT)
Best for children who need to develop coordinated two-handed skills for daily life tasks, without the restriction of the stronger arm.
Combined Approach
Some children benefit from elements of both — Dr. Castle will design a program that draws on whichever techniques best match your child's profile and goals.
Let's Build a Plan Together
If your child has hemiparesis or predominantly uses one arm, an evaluation can determine which approach will give them the best chance to develop full, functional use of both hands. Call 678.367.2382 — we're ready to help.
Call 678.367.2382 to Schedule