Dynamic Movement Intervention Care Advances at Sanford Children’s Therapies in Bismarck
Sanford Children’s Therapies is leading the region in introducing innovative approaches to pediatric rehabilitation, including Dynamic Movement Intervention (DMI), a specialized, hands‑on therapy designed to help children build strong movement foundations.
Dynamic Movement Intervention is a structured therapy method focused on stimulating a child’s neuromuscular system. Through precise, therapist‑guided movements, DMI helps children improve gross motor skills, postural control and coordinated, functional movement patterns. DMI is especially beneficial for children with cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, developmental delays, genetic or neurological disorders, hypotonia (low muscle tone) and motor milestone delays such as sitting, crawling or walking.
“Unlike traditional pediatric therapy that often emphasizes play‑based strengthening, DMI is highly structured and specific,” said Jackie Mrachek, PT, DPT, Children’s Therapy Manager, Sanford Bismarck. “Families participating in DMI are already seeing meaningful progress, with many children reaching new mobility milestones. As one of the first care teams in the region to adopt and expand DMI, Sanford Children’s Therapies is helping shape the future of pediatric rehabilitation.”
Sanford Children’s Therapies introduced DMI locally more than a year ago and currently has 10 Level B–trained therapists and two Level A–trained therapists. This spring, Sanford Bismarck will host a Level C DMI training course, the highest level and one of only a few such trainings held worldwide in 2026. Upon completion, Sanford Children’s Therapies will have 10 Level C‑trained therapists, enabling the team to officially offer DMI Intensives, a specialized and highly sought‑after therapy format.
Sanford continues to be recognized for its commitment to advanced training, clinical excellence, early adoption of new therapeutic techniques, active involvement in research and family-centered approach that earns parents’ trust. Thanks to the generosity of donors through the Sanford Health Foundation, Sanford Bismarck continues to invest in DMI and the education needed to deliver it effectively. As a result, Sanford Children’s Therapies is empowering children across the region to reach their highest potential.
The Sanford Health Bismarck Region provides health care to central and western North Dakota, eastern Montana and northern South Dakota. It includes 26 clinics in Bismarck, Mandan, Minot, Dickinson, Williston and Watford City, as well as a Level II trauma center located in Bismarck.