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Sensory: Desensitization Activities for Home

These instructions are for Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) patients recommended to practice desensitization activities at home.

Patient instructions:

Your therapist will recommend how long to practice each activity and the number of sessions each week.

  • Brushing: Use a brush to rub in all directions with firm pressure.

  • Lotion massage: Apply lotion and use pressure to massage the body part to decrease sensitivity.

  • Towel massage: Briskly rub the sensitive area with a towel. Use firm pressure in all directions on the areas that are painful.

  • Audible taps: Perform tapping to the sensitive area. Tap the area with enough pressure to create a loud tapping sound.

  • Hair brushing: If your hair, head, or scalp hurts, then be sure to brush your hair. Massage the scalp while shampooing and then blow dry hair using a brush.

  • Ice massage: Slowly rub an ice cup or ice cube on the sensitive area.

  • Vibration: Use a handheld massager to move in all directions with firm pressure.

Reviewed on December 19, 2022, by Jennifer Strebel, OTR/L

© Children's Hospital of Philadelphia 2024. Not to be copied or distributed without permission. All rights reserved. Patient family education materials provide educational information to help individuals and families. You should not rely on this information as professional medical advice or to replace any relationship with your healthcare provider.

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