The Wilbarger Protocol: Expert Overview of the Method

The Wilbarger Protocol, also called the “Wilbarger Brushing Protocol” or “Therapeutic Brushing,” is a therapeutic method developed by Patricia Wilbarger, an experienced occupational therapist who specializes in sensory integration. This protocol is particularly popular with occupational therapists and specialists dealing with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). The aim of the method is to modulate and regulate the nervous system, which leads to an improvement in the ability to process sensory stimuli.

Wilbarger has developed a series of techniques that help “reprogram” the nervous system and enable it to better cope with excess tactile stimuli. A key element of this protocol is the use of a special brush (most often a Wilbarger therapeutic toothbrush) in combination with joint compressions. This process is carried out systematically and in a strictly controlled manner.

The main goal of the Wilbarger Protocol is to improve a person’s ability to properly perceive sensory stimuli through regular stimulation of the nervous system.

How does the Wilbarger Protocol work?

The protocol includes two basic techniques: skin brushing and joint compressions

Skin brushing:

– This procedure requires the use of a special therapeutic brush, which is gently moved over the child’s skin (usually on the arms, back, legs and arms).

– The process is not painful or irritating, but should be done exactly as prescribed to ensure results.

– Regular brushing affects the nerves responsible for deep sensation (proprioceptive receptors), which can reduce hypersensitivity or sensitivity to touch.

Joint compressions:

– After brushing, a series of gentle, rhythmic pressures are applied to the child’s joints.

– These compressions affect the proprioceptive system, helping the body to better understand body position and improve motor organization.

Many children using the Wilbarger protocol show significant improvements in:

– Reduction of tactile hypersensitivity: Reducing defensive reactions to touch and other stimuli allows children to function better in everyday life, such as wearing different clothes, participating in play with other children, or tolerating washing all areas of the body.

– Improved personal comfort and concentration: Children are better able to cope with cognitive challenges, which has a positive effect on learning new skills and everyday tasks.

– Better self-regulation: The protocol helps children control their emotions and levels of arousal, which reduces the number of emotional outbursts or anxiety.

– Better motor coordination: Improved proprioception increases self-confidence in movement and motor play.

Brushing should be done in the following order:

• hand
• palm
• back
• the other hand,
• the other hand,
• Legs
• feet from the outside,
• feet from the inside

Do not brush the head, neck, chest, abdomen and groin area.

The duration of a single session of brushing and joint compression should not last more than 3-4 minutes. The massage should be performed every 1.5-2 hours a day (3/6 treatments a day) for a maximum of 6 weeks – depending on the child’s needs.

This technique should be used by one caregiver, because the strength and frequency of brushing and pressure applied are important here.

RIGHT HAND again and again, in an upward and upward movement around the limb, the entire surface of the hand from the wrist to the shoulder without the inner part of the hand

RIGHT HAND movement performed slightly faster, up and down movement from the inside – x 5 sequences; then in one movement to the shoulder and back with the outside of the hand to the end of the fingers

BACK begins with an up-down and upward movement, then in a zigzag movement from top to bottom of the back

LEFT HAND once at a time in a movement from top to bottom and upwards around the limb the entire surface of the hand, including the inner part of the hand

LEFT HAND in an up and down movement from the inside x 5 sequences

LEGS, thighs in front and whole calves, up and down FEET from the outside, up and down x 5 sequences

FEET from the inside with heel-to-toe movement x 5 sequences; Hold your feet with your hand so that the hand of the massager moves over the top of the foot and the brush moves parallel to the sole of the foot – otherwise there may be a tickling effect

Joint clamps

After brushing, dynamically according to the following order:

Shoulder pressure (10 times) Shoulder and elbow press at once (10 times) Elbow and wrist press at once (10 times) Finger presses at once – from small to index (10 times) Hip pressing against knees at once (10 times) Knee and ankle joint press at once (10 times) Chest pressure while keeping your hand on your back – horizontal and chest movement – downward movement (3 times)

The Wilbarger Protocol is one of the valued tools in the therapy of children with sensory processing disorders, offering an effective way to reduce hypersensitivity and tactile subsensitivity and improve sensory functioning. The use of this method can bring measurable benefits in terms of self-regulation, improvement of behavior, motor coordination and the overall quality of life of the child.

Both therapists and parents who plan to implement the Wilbarger Protocol should remember to follow the guidelines carefully and systematically monitor the child’s progress to ensure the best possible therapeutic outcomes.

Emilia Adamczyk