Wilbarger Brushing & Joint Compressions
Wilbarger Brushing Protocol Technique (DPPT) & Joint Compressions
The Wilbarger Deep Pressure Proprioceptive Technique is a deep pressure technique used with children and adults who have sensory defensiveness.
The purpose is to alter and normalize sensory processing which will assist with the child or adults ability to function within home or school setting. Brushing can have an impact on the child's social and work behaviors. Most parents notice a difference in focus, self awareness and self control.
You should always use the brush with a firm even pressure. Do not sweep brush. Hold brush horizontally and move the brush slowly.
ALWAYS CONSULT WITH AN O.T OR PROFESSIONAL FOR TRAINING

On the arm, do brushing over clothing by pulling the clothing tight down to maximize pressure.
Each child should have their own brush for hygiene reasons. Always maintain contact with the child during the brushing procedure. Use hand palm versus finger tips.
The child should be in a seated position if possible. Explain to your child about brushing and how you will do it for them and talk about the steps as you are doing them. It is best to do the procedure in a calm and quiet area.
Wilbarger Brushing Protocol Procedure
Brush arms covering as much surface area as possible, 5 stroke in a up/down motion, covering the area 2X.
Brush Palms 5X
Brush back 5X up and down and 5X side to side.
Brush other arm.
Brush legs below the knee covering as much surface as possible, % strokes in a up/down motion covering 2X.
Brush feet holding one hand on top and the other using the brush in a in a sweeping movement. Move top hand in sync with the bottom one 5X.
Many adults with autism have also reported reduction in sensory defensiveness, decreased anxiety, and increased comfort in the environment through the use of this technique.
An occupational therapist who has been trained to use the technique, and who knows sensory integration theory, needs to teach and supervise the Wilbarger Protocol. This statement cannot be emphasized enough. If the technique is carried out with-out proper instruction, it could be uncomfortable for the child and may lead to undesired results.
The first step of the Wilbarger Protocol involves providing deep pressure to the skin on the arms, back, and legs through the use of a special surgical brush. Many people mistakenly call this technique "brushing" because a surgical brush is used. The term "brushing" does not adequately reflect the amount of pressure that is exerted against the skin with the movement of the brush. A more appropriate analogy would be that it is like giving someone a deep massage using a surgical brush. The use of the brush in a slow and methodical manner provides consistent deep-pressure input to a wide area of the skin surface on the body. The face and stomach are never brushed.
The complete routine should only take about three minutes. This technique can be incorporated into a sensory diet schedule. The procedure is initially repeated every ninety minutes. After a period of time, the frequency is reduced. Eventually the procedure can be stopped, but gains can be maintained. Some children immediately enjoy this input, and others resist the first few sessions. You may distract the child by singing or offering a fidget toy.
Some children really like the administration of this protocol and will seek out the brush and bring it to their parents, teachers, or caregivers. Other children tolerate it with little reaction, and occasionally a child is resistive. If the child continues to resist, and you see negative changes, you must reconsider the use of the technique and contact the therapist. This has rarely occurs.
Joint Compressions
Place your hand on the top of either shoulder and press down together 10X
Place hand on top of other shoulder and under elbow arm at the students side and press together 10X
Place fingers in a scissor position behind knuckle joints and hold finger straight with other hand.
Keeping joints straight press together 10X
Do the same for the other arm next.
Place hand on hip and other at the front knee. Press together 10X, Alternatively press front of knee with
students bottom pressing against the back of the chair. Place hands on the top of both knees press down 10X.
Place other hand under clavicles on chest and other on back between shoulder blades, Press together and down 3X.
Wilbarger Protocol should be done every 90-120 minutes, 8-10 times per day for maximum effectiveness.











