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Sensory Processing Disorder, also called Sensory Integration Dysfunction or Sensory Integration Disorder, is an inability to pull together and understand (or process) sensory input.
We receive and perceive sensory input through sights, sounds, touch, tastes, smells, and movement. Difficulty taking in or interpreting this input can lead to problems with daily functioning, social and family relationships, self-regulation, self-esteem, behavior, and/or learning.
Everyone experiences difficulties with pulling together sensory input at one time or another, particularly during periods of growth, change, or stress. However, people who have Sensory Processing Disorder experience these difficulties consistently throughout most of their day. This impacts their performance at home, at school, at work, and at play.
Sensory Processing Disorder Symptoms
- Impulsiveness, Lack of Self-Control
- Hyper/Hyposensitivity to Touch, Sight, Sound, Smell, Taste, and/or Movement
- Problems with Muscle Tone or Motor Coordination
- Problems with Motor Planning (Praxis)
- An Unusually High or Low Activity Level
- Poor Eye-Hand Coordination
- Difficulty Establishing Hand Dominance
- Intense Reactions to New or Unfamiliar Environments
- Difficulty With Transitions
- Poor Frustration Tolerance
- Self-Regulation Problems
- Academic Problems
- Difficulty Tolerating a Wide Variety Of Food Textures
- Clumsiness and Carelessness
- Discomfort in Group Situations
- Increased Frequency and Intensity of Tantrums
- Poor Play Skills; Poor Social Skills
Sensory Processing Disorder Treatment
A child with Sensory Processing Disorder may be helped through treatment by a qualified pediatric occupational therapist – one who is trained in using equipment and techniques needed to address the underlying sensory processing issues. For more information, please contact us.
