Intensive therapy
There are growing numbers of studies that show intensive sessions once or twice a year have more effect on a child's development than regular weekly sessions over a year. For example, physiotherapy three hours a day for a month is likely to have more benefits than an hour of physio once a week for twelve months. The VTCRI neuromotor research centre in Virginia, USA specialises in treating CASK children using an intensive therapy called ACQUIRE therapy. Read our summary of the 2024 paper on twenty children with a CASK-related disorder. We have created a list of centres around the world that provide intensive therapy.
Intensive therapy centres →
Conductive education
Created in Hungary in the 1940s to help children with cerebral palsy. A number of conductive education institutions exist in the UK. They use repeated exercises and songs to teach the individual how to specifically and consciously move and perform actions.
Cuevas Medek Exercise (CME)
Cuevas Medek is a form of therapy used to treat children who have a motor delay, which could be the result of several different conditions. The therapy aims to encourage the recovery of children's motor functions. It was developed by Ramon Cuevas in Venezuela in the 1970s. There are very few practitioners in the UK but a number of CASK families have found this treatment effective for their child.
Whole body vibration technology
There is no scientific evidence that vibration platforms work for severe neurological conditions like CASK. There is limited evidence it can help with nerve regeneration. Vibration plates may be used as part of intensive therapy sessions. Several CASK children have anecdotally shown improvements after using vibration platforms.
Primitive reflex integration
There is evidence that many children with developmental problems have retained primitive reflexes. In order for the child to progress they must become integrated. Specific exercises can help, and they are often included in intensive therapy sessions. B.I.R.D. is a charity that specialises in primitive reflex integration. The book The Symphony of Reflexes by Bonnie Brandes is educational on this topic.
Lycra suits
Lycra suits are often provided by the NHS. They support the body, provide sensory feedback and proprioception, and promote improved posture and stability. Ask your physio about this.
Equine therapy
Horse riding is a form of physiotherapy, providing the child with lots of sensory feedback whilst also working the core muscles. Contact your local Riding for the Disabled to find out if they can help your family.
Music therapy
CASK children seem to universally love music.
Rebound therapy
Rebound therapy uses trampolines to exercise the body. It provides opportunities for enhanced movement patterns, therapeutic positioning, exercise and recreation for a wide range of users with additional needs.
Low level laser therapy (LLLT / PBM)
Sometimes known as Photobiomodulation, low-level laser therapy uses light boxes emitting red and/or near-infrared light. The light triggers biochemical changes within cells. It is thought that the mitochondria can absorb and harness the energy, increasing cellular efficiency and proliferation. There is substantial evidence that LLLT is effective in pain management. It is inconclusive whether it can help neurological or metabolic conditions, but the science is suggestive that it may.
