What are some good occupational therapy treatments for a 5 month old boy who was born prematurely at 1.5 lbs?

He has increased muscle tone and decreased muscle strength throughout. He was born at 24 weeks gestation. His visual tracking is somewhat delayed and he has a diagnosis of retinopathy of prematurity.

First of all, if this is your child you should definitely consult your pediatrician, and a neonatologist. Every premie's situation is different, and no one would want to misead you by giving general answers here.

This infant's corrected age is only about 1 month. Someone with this kind of low birth weight and prematurity most likely has sustained some degree of intraventricular hemorrahage and cerebral palsy. That's the reason for the altered muscle tone and strength. His/her vision should be followed/assessed closely by his/her opthalmologist.

At this young age, some physical therapy to prevent flexion contracture in arms and legs can be done, but occupational therapy is limited because such young infants do not perform many functions yet. (Occupational therapy targets to help patients perform daily tasks). As the baby grows older, OT will be more helpful in such aspects as holding objects, feeding self, obtaining mobility from crawling to walking, etc. For sure a good occupational therapist experienced in working with premature babies is crucial, and you can get referral to such therapists through the neonatologist. Usually former-premies have a 6-month evaluation by what we call the "high-risk" specialty team, which includes neonatologist, physical therapist, occupational therapist, opthalmologist, and other specialists if necessary. Speech therapist will join a little later. So if this baby has not been seen by an OT expert he/she should be very soon.

Bottom line, this is not something you can get a quickie answer here. Most importantly talk to the right people and obtain good referrals.