Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI) is a hands-on therapeutic approach used mainly with infants and children who have motor delays or neurological conditions. It focuses on improving strength, balance, postural control, and functional movement by encouraging the child to actively respond to gravity and movement challenges.
The main goal of DMI is to help a child develop normal movement patterns by:
Activating automatic postural responses
Improving head, trunk, and core control
Encouraging independent and functional movement
The therapist places the child in specific dynamic positions
Gentle but precise hands-on support is provided
The child is encouraged to actively correct posture and move
Therapy progresses from simple to more complex movements
Unlike passive therapy, the child must actively participate, which helps the brain and body learn more effectively.
DMI is commonly used for children with:
Cerebral palsy
Developmental delay
Genetic or neurological disorders
Hypotonia (low muscle tone)
Down syndrome
Brain injury
Evidence-informed and neuroplasticity-based
Focuses on quality of movement
Encourages active muscle engagement
Often used alongside physiotherapy and occupational therapy
