Sensory Processing Disorder

What is sensory processing disorder?

Sensory processing disorder is a mismatch between the sensory stimuli of the environment and the brain’s response to that stimuli. A child with sensory processing disorder may have a difficult time processing and acting upon the information they receive from their senses, resulting in challenges with everyday tasks.

Children with sensory processing disorder may be clumsy, have behavioral issues, or struggle in school. Without proper treatment, the condition may lead to depression and anxiety. 

What are sensory processing disorder symptoms?

Sensory processing disorder symptoms vary significantly. It can present as a child being afraid of loud noises, refusing to touch certain textures, or not feeling any pain.

Other symptoms that may indicate sensory processing disorder include:

• Extreme mood swings
• Clumsiness
• Need for constant motion
• Over or under-sensitive to outside stimuli
• Sensitive to loud noises
• The child is intense, demanding, or difficult to calm
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Difficulty focusing
• Slow to learn new skills

Sensory processing disorder may affect one of the senses (touch, sight, sound) or many senses, and the symptoms they cause are chronic and affect everyday life. 

What happens during a sensory processing disorder evaluation?

The therapy team at Solaris Pediatric Therapy specializes in sensory processing disorder and conducts comprehensive evaluations to better understand your child and their therapy needs. In addition to evaluating your child’s sensory processing abilities, the team also assesses your child’s ability to regulate their nervous system, visual system, and reflexes. The team also assesses your child’s capacity for social engagement.

The comprehensive evaluation allows the team to better understand your child and how they interpret the messages they receive from the world, which is essential for the development of a comprehensive and effective therapy plan.

In addition to evaluating your child, the team also consults with you to gather more information about you and your family, which helps in the development of your child’s treatment plan. 

What therapies can help my child’s sensory processing disorder?

Solaris Pediatric Therapy uses sensory integration therapy for children with sensory processing disorder. During therapy, the team engages your child in activities that help modulate sensory stimulation, develop adaptive responses, and feel more comfortable with the world around them. The main goal of therapy is to help your child develop self-regulation abilities and tolerate sensory stimuli, as well as improve their balance, fine and gross motor skills, coordination, and eye movement. 

Sensory processing disorder is a chronic condition that can have a profound effect on daily life. To learn more about therapy at Solaris Pediatric Therapy, call the office or request an appointment online today. 

BOOK ONLINE