September 12, 2025
Every child deserves the chance to move, explore, and engage with the world around them. But for some children with motor delays or neurological conditions, achieving even the simplest movements can be a challenge. That’s where DMI therapy, or Dynamic Movement Intervention, comes in. At Reem Hospital, our pediatric rehabilitation specialists are proud to offer DMI therapy as part of our holistic approach to helping children build strength, improve motor control, and gain greater independence—one movement at a time.
DMI therapy (short for Dynamic Movement Intervention) is a therapeutic technique designed to help children with motor delays or developmental disabilities improve their ability to move. It involves a series of structured exercises that challenge the child’s balance, posture, and coordination in a safe and supportive environment.
The therapy is grounded in neuroscience and motor learning principles and is especially beneficial for children with:
Each session is tailored to the child’s unique abilities and goals, using carefully chosen movements and positions to stimulate the nervous system and promote progress.
In dynamic movement intervention, children are guided through a series of exercises that involve fast, repetitive movements and dynamic positioning. These movements are designed to activate reflexes, improve muscle tone, and train the brain to build new motor patterns.
Therapists may use specialized equipment such as therapy benches, balance blocks, or inclined surfaces to increase difficulty and encourage functional movement like sitting, crawling, or standing.
Many parents are amazed at the progress their children make after just a few sessions of DMI therapy. While results vary depending on the child’s condition and consistency, some common benefits include:
Did You Know? Some children who previously struggled with head control or sitting independently have made significant improvements after just a few weeks of consistent dynamic movement intervention.
DMI therapy is designed primarily for infants and children who have not yet developed age-appropriate motor skills due to neurological or genetic conditions. It can be introduced as early as a few months old and adjusted to meet the needs of older children as well.
Children with the following conditions are often excellent candidates:
| Condition | How DMI Therapy Helps |
| Cerebral palsy | Improves strength, reduces abnormal movement patterns |
| Hypotonia (low muscle tone) | Encourages stability, muscle engagement |
| Genetic syndromes (e.g., Rett) | Promotes mobility and motor learning |
| Premature birth delays | Stimulates delayed postural and motor development |
| Motor planning difficulties | Supports learning of coordinated, functional movement |
Each session of dynamic movement intervention is high-energy and typically lasts around 30 to 45 minutes. The child is placed in different positions and guided through quick, purposeful movements that stimulate posture, reflexes, and balance.
Therapists closely monitor the child’s responses and adapt the difficulty level based on their performance. No two sessions are exactly the same.
Parents are often encouraged to observe and learn simple exercises that can be reinforced at home, allowing the child to build on their progress between sessions.
Yes, DMI therapy is considered safe when administered by trained professionals. At Reem Hospital, all therapists providing dynamic movement intervention are specially certified and experienced in pediatric neurodevelopmental therapy.
Each child is carefully assessed before beginning therapy, and their sessions are designed with their specific medical history, motor level, and sensory needs in mind.
Did You Know? DMI exercises can be adapted to support children who are non-verbal, have feeding tubes, or use assistive devices.
Some children show improvements after just a few sessions, while others may require several weeks or months of regular therapy to make progress. The key is consistency and ongoing support.
Many families report improved trunk control, more purposeful movement, and greater awareness of their body after 4–6 sessions. Long-term improvements often depend on how early the therapy begins and whether it’s paired with other therapies like occupational or speech therapy.
DMI therapy is more than just a treatment—it’s a powerful tool that helps children explore their bodies, build confidence, and unlock potential through movement. With its growing popularity and strong evidence base, dynamic movement intervention is making a meaningful difference in the lives of children with motor challenges.
If you’re curious whether DMI is right for your child, our specialists at Reem Hospital Abu Dhabi are here to guide you every step of the way.
Patient Login
