Attention CHOP clinicians: patient education should be printed and assigned via EPIC's Teaching Library.
Health Encyclopedia
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings

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

Powered by StayWell
Disclaimer