What is Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological condition that affects how the brain processes sensory information in children. Those with SPD may exhibit heightened sensitivity to sensory input or may not respond to it at all, leading to challenges in their daily lives.

Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder:

• Constant need for tactile interaction: A tendency to touch people or textures inappropriately.
• Lack of awareness of personal space: Difficulty understanding boundaries when interacting with peers.
• Clumsiness and poor coordination: Difficulty with balance and movement.
• High pain tolerance: An unusual ability to withstand pain without visible discomfort.
• Aggressive play behavior: May unintentionally harm others or pets due to not recognizing their own strength.
• Fidgetiness: Difficulty sitting still, often displaying restless behaviors.
• Preference for movement-based activities: Enjoys spinning, jumping, and other forms of physical play.
• Thrill-seeking behavior: Engages in risky activities that can be dangerous at times.

Causes of Sensory Processing Disorder:

While the exact cause of SPD remains unidentified, research suggests several contributing factors:

• Genetic components: A study of twins in 2006 indicated that hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli might have a strong hereditary link.
• Abnormal brain activity: Some studies have shown that children with SPD exhibit atypical brain responses when exposed to simultaneous sensory stimuli, such as light and sound.
• Persistent responses to stimuli: Unlike typically developing children, those with SPD may continue to react intensely to sensations, such as a gentle touch or loud noise, rather than quickly acclimating.

The Role of Occupational Therapy:

Occupational therapists play a vital role in helping children with SPD. They begin by evaluating the child to identify specific sensory sensitivities. Based on this assessment, therapists collaborate with families to develop personalized coping strategies and treatment plans. Through targeted interventions, children can learn to manage their sensory experiences more effectively, leading to increased comfort and confidence in exploring their environment.

With appropriate support from an occupational therapist, children struggling with sensory processing disorder can learn to navigate their sensory world more happily and calmly, transforming challenges into opportunities for growth.

At Reddy Care Physical and Occupational Therapy, we can get you set up with the right therapist for you. Call today to schedule a consultation!

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Sources: Resource 1  Resource 2   Resource 3

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Written by:

Dr. Vinod Somareddy, PT, DPT

President

Reddy Care Physical Therapy

Reddy Care Occupational Therapy

Reddy Care Aquatic Therapy 

Author

Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy is an outstanding specialty service providing exceptional care and state-of-the-art treatments for the residents of Farmingdale and Great Neck, New York. The combination of innovative exercise programs, manual therapy, and technology together with the expertise of every member of the team enables Reddy Care Physical & Occupational Therapy to provide services that ensure superior clinical outcomes and consistently high patient satisfaction.