SENSORY INTEGRATION DISORDER

Sensory Integration Disorder, also known as Sensory Processing Disorder, is a behavioral label for a constellation of symptoms that affects the way the nervous system processes and responds to sensory stimuli from the environment. It occurs when the brain has difficulty organizing and effectively using information received through the senses.


Sensory Integration Disorder is seen in multiple mental health diagnoses. The condition is not found in the DSM-5 of the American Psychiatric Association. When we see a person referred by an occupational therapist with this label, we do a work-up for medical conditions that may present with the symptoms of sensory processing disorder.


Individuals with sensory integration disorder may experience hypersensitivity, hypo-sensitivity, or both to various sensory inputs, including touch, sound, taste, smell, visual stimuli, and movement. They may have difficulty filtering irrelevant sensory information, leading to overload. Something that other people can tolerate, may be intolerable to a child with Sensory Integration Disorder. One example would be an emotional outburst when a child is exposed to the sound of a vacuum cleaner.


Common signs and symptoms of sensory processing disorder may include:

  1. Over-reactivity or extreme sensitivity to certain sounds, textures, lights, or smells.
  2. Motor coordination difficulties, including poor balance, clumsiness, or delayed motor skills.
  3. Sensory-seeking behaviors, such as excessive rough play, constantly touching objects, or craving intense sensory input.
  4. Difficulty with regulation of emotions, resulting in frequent meltdowns, anxiety, or irritability due to sensory inputs.
  5. Challenges with attention, focus, or organization.
  6. Sensitivity or aversion to certain clothing textures, tags, or materials.


Diagnosing the underlying causes of sensory processing disorder (SPD) symptoms can be complex, as conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and certain developmental delays can all manifest similar symptoms. Occupational therapists (OTs) are equipped to provide effective therapy for these issues. An OT can provide therapies that desensitize them to various stimuli, promoting improved sensory regulation and participation in daily activities.