The Interactive Metronome is an advanced brain-based treatment program designed to promote and enhance brain performance and recovery. This is accomplished by using innovative neurosensory and neuromotor exercises developed to improve the brain's inherent ability to repair or remodel itself through a process called neuroplasticity.

Clinical Foundation

The human brain's efficiency and performance depend on the seamless transition of neuronetwork signals from one area of the brain to another. Findings in a recent study by Neal Alpiner, MD, “Functional MRI Study of the Effects of IM on Auditory-Motor Processing Networks”, suggest that IM works by augmenting internal processing speed within the neuroaxis. The key regions affected appear to include the cerebellum, prefrontal cortex, cingulate gyrus and basal ganglia.

The IM program provides a structured, goal-oriented process that challenges the patient to synchronize a range of hand and foot exercises to a precise computer-generated reference tone heard through headphones. The patient attempts to match the rhythmic beat with repetitive motor actions. A patented audio or audio and visual guidance system provides immediate feedback measured in milliseconds, and a score is provided.

For many years, occupational therapists have observed the significant role that motor planning and sequencing play in helping patients become more functionally independent in the activities of daily living (ADLs).

Ongoing studies show that improving rhythmicity and timing through Interactive Metronome (IM) may also result in significant improvements in the development of cognitive and physical skills that are important for performance in many areas including:

Motor function
Balance
Bilateral coordination
Sensory integration
Motor planning and sequencing

Pediatric Developmental Therapy Overview

IM Treatment has been used to help children diagnosed with:

Sensory Integration Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Cerebral Palsy
Non-verbal Learning Disorder
ADD/ADHD

Many children diagnosed with pediatric and developmental disorders may show:

Language deficits (poor listening comprehension, poor verbal expression, poor reading comprehension)
Poor organizational skills
Poor memory
Poor fine and gross motor skills
Poor balance

Pediatric therapists and education specialists understand the correlation between the neurological functions of motor planning and sequencing and the critical aspects of human development, such as basic thinking, organizing, academic achievement, and coordination.

When a child demonstrates a deficit in motor planning and sequencing, it is typically accompanied by problems in learning, coordination, or behavioral control. Prior to the development of Interactive Metronome, Inc. (IM) pediatric therapists were able to identify patients with these difficulties, but there was no system for measurable assessment and improvement.

Today we know how to measure a child’s motor planning and sequencing abilities, and we can show measurable improvement in a short period of time.

IM has undergone scientific trials and has been shown to improve:

Attention and Concentration
Motor Control and Coordination
Cognitive Processing
Reading and Math Fluency
Control of Agression/Impulsivity

Vortex Sensory Rehabilitation Center is authorized to provide the Interactive Metronome (IM) Program. Above information is copyright ©1993-2004 InteractiveMetronome - used with permission. Interactive Metronome is a registered trademark.