Reduction of Stereotypical Hand Movements in Girls with Rett Syndrome: Two Case Studies.

This study explains the characteristics and treatment of individuals with Rett Syndrome and presents two case studies that investigated the use of interventions in reducing stereotypical hand movements (SHM). The case studies involve two girls (ages 5 and 7) with Rett Syndrome who were enrolled in a special education school. Information was gathered on using different types of intervention to reduce SHM, including elastic bands and vibrators. The study found an inconsistency of effect of elastic bands and vibrators on the girls. Other findings include: (1) swinging in the swing had a positive effect on reducing SHM; (2) one of the girls preferred a tactile message to the hand, and rejected deep pressure through the joints; (3) the availability of objects and their distance from the girls (especially to the less ambulatory girl) had a great effect on the level of engagement with objects and response to external stimuli; and (4) the most effective position was found to be prone with objects 50 cm diagonally from the girls. Information sheets that could be used as overheads or handouts are attached. (CR)