Q&A: Why Use Weighted Vests?

Question:

Can you please clarify for me the reasons for using weighted a vest? What are the advantages? What are the disadvantages?

Answer:

A weighted vest provides extra proprioceptive input. Proprioceptive input gives us information about our bodies—where our parts are in relationship to each other and more. This type of input has an organizing effect on our brains. Kids who will benefit the most are those who appear to be under-responsive to proprioceptive input. You can print a Sensory Symptoms Checklist from my website. Fill it out and evaluate the proprioceptive section.

The only potential disadvantage would be for kids who have low muscle tone. Rather than weighted garments, I usually use compression garments for these kids.

I hope that helps! Please let me know if you need further clarification.

Best Wishes,
Gwen