Clairapy: The Use of Comfort Cuties in Physical Therapy

Clairapy: The Use of Comfort Cuties in Physical Therapy

Comfort Cutie dolls have found homes all over the USA, and around the world, often being used as an anxiety tool. But, Claire has also found a home in a local physical therapy office. Take a look at what our weighted therapy doll has been up to in this interview with Michelle Boyle, Physical Therapist, Doctor of Physical Therapy. 

What type of work do you do?

I am a Physical Therapist at an inpatient rehabilitation hospital.

What benefits have you found in using a weighted baby doll?

Both the PTs (physical therapists) and OTs (occupational therapists) have chosen this doll over the others we have used with our patients several times. The weight of them can be maximized in a therapeutic way to facilitate strengthening and activation of the parasympathetic nervous system in our patients. They have also helped with our patients with cognitive deficits as a way to engage them in activities. Particularly with women; there is an innate ability to nurture and comfort, and handing these dolls to a patient, you immediately see these instincts take over. It has helped patients that are internally distracted be able to focus on the task at hand and want to participate in sessions.

What patient populations have benefited or have the potential to benefit from use of this weighted baby doll?

Patients with dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, fine motor deficits, patients that are mothers or regularly interact with children, and patients with cognitive deficits due to CVA, brain injury or a neurological disorder. 

Can you tell us specific scenarios in which you used the weighted baby doll? 

Scenario 1I was working with a patient who was in inpatient rehabilitation following a stroke and had a history of dementia.  She was often very lethargic and when she was awake, would get easily agitated.  Her functional status would often fluctuate greatly based on her ability to participate in activities.  She had the strength, but was resistant to use it during therapy.  One day when bringing her to the gym, I grabbed the Comfort Claire doll to try and engage her in any sort of treatment.  Upon showing her the doll, she immediately sat up in her wheelchair, took the doll and began rocking it and smiling.  This was the first time we had seen her have a positive demeanor during her stay.  While holding the doll, we were able to have her do activities such as reaching, postural training, trunk control activities and even stretching since she was more relaxed.  From then on, we made sure to incorporate the doll as much as possible to set us up to have successful sessions and maximize the benefit of rehab.  Her family saw such a change that they began bringing dolls she could use outside of therapy and when she discharged. 

Comfort Claire being used as a physical therapy tool.

Scenario 2: We have a patient who is going home to a 7 month old so we are practicing taking care of a baby, stroller, standing to change diaper, bending over to lift her out. Therapists have been using this doll and are impressed with the weight it has. 

Weighted Baby Dolls Are Therapy Tools

Our weighted baby dolls are so much more than just dolls. They can be used in many different ways, including physical therapy. If you're looking to add a therapy doll to your practice, take a look at our collection today.  

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