Exploring The Benefits Of Joint Compression: Techniques And Tips
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What is Joint Compression?
Joint compression is a passive technique which means adults give the compressions to the child. It stimulates the proprioceptive receptors around the joints when it is compressed or squeezed.
Usually, these receptors constantly send signals to the brain about our body’s presence on the ground through which we run, walk, and climb without bumping into nearby objects also known as body awareness.
Children who are on the move ( sensory seekers) such as running, jumping around, and doing tough activities always don't get enough proprioceptive input from their nervous system and seek more through movement. Joint compression helps them to meet their sensory needs and provides a sense of calm and focus which helps them pay attention to targeted activities like playing with peers, learning new skills, and following instructions.
Further, joint compression also involves the sense of touch (tactile). It discharges the neurotransmitters - dopamine and norepinephrine, which are responsible for arousal, attention, alertness, and regulate the mood and emotion (Hormone health network, 2022).
When can we provide joint compressions?
Joint compressions can be given as many times in a day according to the needs of the child. The following are a few situations where joint compressions can be given:
Before teaching new task or skill.
Before taking your child to the school, park, or any other crowded places.
Before giving an activity that requires intense focus and attention.
When the child is overly active and can’t sit for prolonged periodsof time.
Before going to bed.
When your child feels overwhelmedor dysregulated.
Where can we provide joint compression?
Joint compressions can be given in all joints starting from the shoulders and followed by the elbow, wrist, each finger and hips, knees, ankles, and toes.
How to provide joint compression?
Since joint compression is a passive technique, taking the child's consent is the foremost essential step. When the child is ready the following procedures can be implemented.
Ensure that the child is in a calm environment.
The child can sit or lie on their back(a lying position is preferable).
Use one hand to hold the child’s joint proximally (closer to the body) and the other hand to hold distally (away from the body).
Provide rhythmic compressions by pushing your hand towards each and then relaxing. Likewise, 10 to 15 repetitions or compressions can be given in each joint.
CAUTION: Ensure that you are not gripping or squeezing too tightly.
When to stop joint compression?
If the child shows discomfort by whimpering, crying, pushing your hands away, or saying ‘No’, STOP the joint compression immediately.
CAUTION!: Forcing a child for joint compression will provoke anxiety which can do more harm than help.
Tips to make joint compression FUN!
Use sensory lights and mild instrumental music.
Sing their favorite songs.
Get the child involved by having him count the repetitions.
Provide a toy to play with duringjoint compression.
Conclusion
Utilizing joint compression stands out as a straightforward and highly effective method that parents and caregivers can employ efficiently. However, it's strongly recommended to seek guidance from an Occupational Therapist prior to implementing this technique.
By,
Ms. Sinduja Saravanan,
Centre Head and Occupational Therapist