Major focus area

Occupational Therapy -> Sensory

Short description

The Brush Protocol, also known as the Wilbarger Protocol, is a sensory integration technique designed to reduce sensory defensiveness and help individuals with tactile sensitivities better process sensory information. This intervention involves a structured brushing technique that uses a specific type of brush to provide deep pressure touch stimulation to the skin.

Long description

The Brush Protocol is typically used for individuals who experience discomfort or over-responsiveness to tactile stimuli, such as those with autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorder, or other neurological challenges. The protocol involves using a surgical scrub brush to systematically apply deep pressure to various parts of the body, following a specific sequence and frequency.

This sensory intervention aims to:

- Reduce tactile defensiveness: By decreasing hypersensitivity to touch, making daily activities such as wearing clothes or touching different materials more comfortable.
- Enhance sensory modulation: By helping the nervous system to better regulate sensory input, which can improve attention, behavior, and social interactions.
-Promote relaxation and decrease anxiety: By providing consistent and predictable sensory input, which can have a calming effect.

The brushing is typically done every 2-3 hours during waking hours and is often paired with joint compressions to enhance proprioceptive input, further helping to regulate the sensory system. Occupational therapists train caregivers or parents on how to safely and effectively perform the protocol, as consistency and correct technique are crucial for achieving the desired therapeutic outcomes.