What is the Interactive Metronome (IM)?

The Interactive Metronome (IM) is a computer-based training program designed to improve timing, attention, and coordination in children and adults with a wide range of cognitive and physical difficulties including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). As an assessment and training tool, IM provides a non-invasive way to stimulate learning and development.

How does IM work?

The number and duration of training sessions required may vary depending on individual client needs. The program involves the participant performing 13 different hand and foot exercises to a rhythmic beat for a high number of repetitions while auditory guide tones provide immediate feedback, letting the participant know if the response was on time, early or late.

The difference between the participant's response and the actual beat is measured in milliseconds and presented as a score. By keeping the beat, the brain is trained to plan, sequence, and process more effectively. Research has shown that the brain learns through repetition of precise activities. In turn, this produces measurable gains in physical and mental abilities.

What are the benefits?

The March/April 2001 issue of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy identified five core areas of statistically significant improvements gained through the IM training program: Attention and Focus, Motor Control/Coordination, Language Processing, Reading and Math Fluency, and the Ability to Regulate Aggression/Impulsivity.

Other studies have shown significant correlations between Interactive Metronome and academic achievement in mathematics, language, reading, math and attention to task. The IM program has also proven to be a powerful tool for improving both physical and mental aspects of athletic performance. Please visit www.interactivemetronome.com to view clinical studies.

Who can benefit from going through the IM program?

IM may benefit children and adults who have trouble with motor control/coordination, paying attention, and learning. Patients with ADD/ADHD/Learning disabilities, TBI, CVA, Parkinson's disease and Autistic Spectrum Disorder may also benefit. As with any intervention, the varying degrees of severity affect the immediacy of the outcome. As long as the patient is able to perform repetitive limb movements, positive test results from IM training should be seen over time.

Can the IM be used with all ages and capacity levels?

IM's adaptive design can be used with a broad spectrum of clients as long as they are "developmentally" six years of age or older.

Description of Service

Training Commitment

Typically, IM training requires a minimum of 12 to 15 one-hour sessions, conducted over a 3 to 5 week period. The optimum training frequency is 3 to 5 times per week. Training less than 3 times per week may not produce desired results. The first few training sessions may last more than an hour.

IM training should be viewed as light exercise. When doing IM training wear clothes that will not interfere - excessively loose clothing may "snag" the triggers. Pockets should be empty. Dresses or skirts should allow free mobility without distraction. Wear flat-soled shoes such as sneakers or running shoes. DO NOT wear "flip-flops", high heels, or excessively clunky shoes.