Sensory Processing Disorder
Therapists and various other service providers continue to seek out information on sensory processing. What is it? How does it affect people? What can we do to support people with sensory needs?
Sensory processing disorder (SPD), formerly known as sensory integration dysfunction, is when the brain (or central nervous system) has trouble receiving and organizing sensory information from our 5 senses; touch, taste, smell, sound, sight. This results in craving more of a certain type of input or to avoid something altogether. For example, Tommy likes to play in the mud and get his hands dirty, while Sammy cries and becomes overwhelmed when he is dirty at all. Parents may see a child's reaction as a prolonged tantrum, sensitivity to change, having a high or low pain tolerance, frequently crashing into people or objects/walls and putting objects into the mouth such as rocks or or paint. SPD is often seen in those with developmental disabilities including ADHD, OCD and Autism, but is considered a symptom as opposed to a diagnosis, which continues to be debated by professionals.
In addition to our FIVE senses there are 2 more senses that have been said to impact sensory processing over the years; Vestibular and Proprioception.
- Vestibular- Receptors are found in the inner ear and help the body understand where it is in space such as with balance and coordination. When the vestibular sense is impaired, it can result in HYPOsensitivity (the child CRAVES input like spinning, jumping off things, or intense/fast movement) or HYPERsensitivity (the child is fearful of riding a bike, balance activities and even playing on playground equipment).
- Proprioception-Receptors are found in the joints and ligaments and allow for motor control and posture, helping the child understand how to move within their environment. HYPOsensitivity ( crave input such as jumping, bumping into or crashing activities and love pressure provided by tight bear hugs) and HYPERsensitivity (bump into objects, appearing clumsy, have difficulty when applying pressure/force to something such as when pinching an object, ripping paper when erasing, slam objects down, increased pressure when writing).
If you feel that your child has difficulty with sensory processing, you can follow up with an occupational therapist and neurologist for testing. Often, occupational therapists help in creating a "sensory diet," not food related at all, to give guidelines to help re-train the central nervous system on how to self-regulate with activities and routines to promote optimal functioning throughout the child's day.