Deep Pressure Therapy Mat

An acupressure mat also sometimes called a needle stimulation pad nsp is covered with hundreds of plastic nubs.

Deep pressure therapy mat.

This exceptional functional form therapeutic aid was ergonomically designed to calm reorganize and redirect the energy of children and adults living with autism or who are cognitively disabled and would benefit from deep pressure therapy. Deep pressure is often used to assist the child to self calm and relax so that sensory stimulus can be processed. Mummy wrap wrap the child up tightly in a sheet or blanket like a mummy tucking the ends of the material in. The use of a weighted vest provides the child with unconscious information from the muscles and joints.

A weighted lap pad will promote calm and relaxation because it delivers consistent and gentle pressure. The increased production of serotonin and dopamine counteract the effects of cortisol to hormonally regulate your body s response to sensory information. Put it in your child s lap while you are playing a social game or doing homework. The concept of the deep pressure sensory vest is based on the sensory integration therapy technique of deep pressure.

Bear hugs give a big hug wrapping arms all the way around the child while maintaining constant and firm pressure. Use the mat for 20 to 40 minutes. At a physiological level deep pressure therapy helps the two main systems in the autonomic nervous system balance each other out so as to help with emotional regulation. These small bulges deliver pressure to parts of the body in contact with the.

If the pain is too great lay a towel over the spikes to relieve some of the pressure. Position a small bolster or pillow under your neck. When you apply deep pressure to the body the body switches from running its sympathetic nervous system to its parasympathetic nervous system. How deep pressure stimulation works.

If deep pressure is given during meltdowns or other problem times it can reinforce inappropriate behavior. Don t sleep on your mat or extend your treatment time much beyond 40 minutes. The sympathetic nervous system sns is the alert system in the body. An occupational therapist can offer further information and training regarding deep pressure as a way to manage spd.

Deep pressure can be given as positive reinforcement for appropriate behaviors but should not be withheld as a punishment. Deep pressure touch stimulation is easily achieved. A typical treatment session lasts about half an hour.