Sensory Integration Dysfunction and Therapy

     In the 1970’s, an occupational therapist, Jean Ayres, PhD, studied the way that the body processes sensory input such as vision, hearing and the sense of balance. She felt that when the sensory nerves were not functioning properly, it could cause problems in development, learning and emotional control. She called this condition sensory integration dysfunction. Since that time, treatments such as sensory integration therapies and sensory diets have been developed. Sensory therapies often involve stimulating vision, hearing, touch, balance and coordination. They often use swings, balls, brushes and other equipment in the belief that they help to improve the functioning of the sensory system.

     The problem with the diagnosis of sensory integration disorder is that the signs used in making this diagnosis are present in other disorders such as autism, ADHD, behavior problems, anxiety and developmental delay. The American Academy of Pediatrics states: “Studies to date have not demonstrated that sensory integration dysfunction exists as a separate disorder distinct from these other developmental disabilities.” What is called sensory integration disorder may be one of these other more clearly identified childhood disorders.

    The effectiveness of sensory integration therapy is also difficult to measure. Although some children seem to improve with this treatment, studies have been inconclusive as to whether it is actually beneficial. It is important for parents to know this because the therapy can be long, expensive and involve a lot work on the part of the parents. Dietary therapy can be especially difficult for parents and children.

     The American Academy of Pediatrics offers the following cautions:  sensory integration dysfunction should not be used as a primary diagnosis alone. Other disorders like those mentioned above should be investigated and treated appropriately. Parents need to be aware of the limited data on the use and effectiveness of sensory-based therapies. If a parent decides to allow their child to undergo sensory-based therapy, they should set clear, measurable goals with the person administering the therapy and establish a clear time frame for re-measuring the child’s progress to evaluate whether those goals are being accomplished.