A Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is an umbrella term to describe a condition in which the nervous system has difficulty processing and responding to sensory information. To diagnose an SPD, a multidisciplinary team consisting of an occupational therapist (OT), physical therapist (PT), speech and language pathologist (SLP), psychologist, neurologist, and/or developmental pediatrician should be consulted.
The initial diagnosis is typically made by the occupational therapist (OT). The OT will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, which may include a sensory history and interviews, observation of how the individual responds to sensory input, as well as standardized sensory assessments.
The OT can assess the individual’s ability to process tactile, proprioceptive, visual, auditory, and vestibular information, gauge the individual’s ability to respond to sensory input, and determine areas of deficit or dysregulation.
Once an initial diagnosis is made, the OT may refer the individual to the other members of the multidisciplinary team for further evaluation and treatment planning. The physical therapist, for example, can evaluate the individual’s position and movement, musculoskeletal control, balance and coordination, and overall muscle strength and motor coordination.
The speech and language pathologist can assess the individual’s communication skills and oral-motor functioning. The neurologist or developmental pediatrician can assess neurological functioning and general health status, assess for other possible disorders, and rule out other organic or medical issues.
The psychologist can assess for possible emotional issues, as well as weaknesses in cognitive and executive functioning. Once assessment results have been reviewed, the entire team can develop a comprehensive treatment plan to help the individual manage or reduce their symptoms.
Can you have SPD and not be autistic?
Yes, it is possible to have SPD and not be autistic. Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition in which the sensory information that a person perceives is not properly or accurately processed by the brain.
This condition is characterized by difficulties interpreting and responding to sensory information and can affect individuals in different ways. While autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is also a neurological condition, it is distinct from SPD.
For a diagnosis of ASD, a person must have difficulty with social communication, difficulty with social interaction, and restricted and repetitive behaviors. While these are all symptoms frequently associated with SPD, it is possible to have SPD and not have ASD.
It is important to note, however, that individuals with SPD may have symptoms that overlap with those of autism, including over-responsiveness or under-responsiveness to certain sensory stimuli, making a diagnosis of either condition difficult.
Therefore, individuals should seek out professional evaluation to determine the presence of either or both conditions for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
What kind of doctor do you see for sensory issues?
If you are experiencing sensory issues, such as sensitivity to light and sound, difficulty processing tactile sensations, difficulty with proprioception (the sense of body awareness in space), or difficulty maintaining a regular daily routine, you can see a variety of specialists for help.
Generally, the best place to start is with your primary care doctor, who can evaluate your symptoms and suggest the most appropriate type of specialist for you.
Common professionals that can help with sensory processing issues include neurologists, psychiatrists, occupational therapists, speech/language pathologists, and psychologists. A neurologist can help assess neurological problems that may be causing or exacerbating your symptoms.
A psychiatrist can evaluate any co-occurring mood disorders and can prescribe medication if needed. An occupational therapist specializes in activities of daily living, helping you adapt to the environment and build self-care and independent living skills.
Speech/language pathologists can help address auditory processing and communication difficulties. Lastly, a psychologist can offer psychotherapy to address any psychological aspects of what you are experiencing.
Ultimately, the type of doctor you see will depend upon the individual needs and difficulties associated with your sensory processing issues. Your primary care physician can provide a referral to the best specialist for your situation.
It is important to seek professional help not only to understand what is causing your sensory issues, but also to provide support for helping to manage and better cope with them.
Can you have sensory processing disorder without being autistic?
Yes, it is possible to have Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) without also having autism. Although there is significant overlap between the two conditions, SPD is a disorder in its own right and can exist independently.
SPD is characterized by difficulty processing and responding to sensory information, such as lights, sound, touch, and smell. People may have difficulty tolerating overwhelming stimulation, or may be seeking out more stimulation than is typical.
This can lead to behaviors like avoiding or avoiding certain sensory inputs and difficulty self-regulating.
On the other hand, autism is a developmental disorder characterized by difficulties in social interaction and communication, as well as restrictive and repetitive behaviors. Not all people with autism also have SPD, though those who do often experience greater difficulty in interpreting sensory information.
It is possible to have SPD without autism, though it is important to note that the two conditions share many similar symptoms and can look very similar. The only way to definitively diagnose either condition is through a medical professional.
Is sensory processing a disability?
Sensory processing can be considered a disability, depending on the severity of the difficulties and the impact it has on the person’s life. Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a condition that affects the way the brain interprets and organizes sensory information from the environment and our bodies.
When this information is not processed correctly, the person may experience difficulty regulating their body, emotions, and responses.
People with SPD can have over-sensitivity to certain input such as sound, light, touch, and taste. They may also be under-sensitive or unresponsive to input. For example, they may not detect a sound or feel that they are being touched.
In addition, they may have difficulty interpreting and understanding social cues, such as facial expressions and gestures.
The difficulties associated with SPD can vary greatly from person to person, ranging from mild to severe. For some people, these difficulties can interfere with everyday activities, such as sleeping, eating, paying attention, focusing, and learning.
In these cases, there could be an argument for classifying SPD as a disability.
At the end of the day, sensory processing should be assessed on an individual basis. Close observation from a professional and a thorough assessment of the person’s specific needs are necessary to make an appropriate determination.
Through proper evaluation and support, people with SPD can learn to manage their difficulties and live successfully.
What therapy helps with sensory processing?
Sensory Processing Therapy can be used to help people who have difficulty interpreting sensory information from their environment, such as sounds, light, textures, etc. The goal of this type of therapy is to facilitate integration of sensory information through the use of techniques such as:
• Sensory Modulation Techniques: These techniques are designed to help the patient become more aware of their sensory environment, recognize their own sensory preferences, and respond more positively when faced with various sensory information.
Techniques might include using weighted blankets, vibratory devices, different textures and fabrics, and joint compression.
• Motor Planning and Coordination Exercises: These exercises help to improve the coordination and sequencing of movements, which can help improve the patient’s ability to better process sensory information.
Exercises might include jumping, balancing, skipping, and obstacle courses.
• Gross Motor Activities: Activities that involve larger muscle groups and activities that require more coordination and balance help to stimulate the patient’s brain and help to better process sensory information.
Examples of activities include jumping, biking, trampolines, and rock climbing.
• Fine Motor Activities: These activities help to improve the patient’s fine motor skills, which can then help with improved sensory processing. Examples of these activities include threading beads, typing, handwriting, and drawing.
• Proprioceptive/Vestibular Input: This type of input helps the patient to better understand the position of their body and how their movements affect the environment. Examples of these activities include climbing and swinging.
• Tactile Input: In addition to stimulating the skin and touch receptors, tactile input can help the patient to better understand their environment. Examples of activities include sand or moon sand, finger painting, and sensory boxes.
In order to be successful, Sensory Processing Therapy should be tailored to meet the individual needs of the patient and should incorporate activities that are enjoyable and engaging for them.
Is SPD a form of autism?
No, SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder) is not a form of autism. While both the conditions share certain common traits like difficulty with communication and difficulty in making sense of sensory input, they are distinct conditions that can co-occur in individuals.
SPD is defined as a neurological disorder characterized by the way a person receives, processes, and reacts to sensory input. People with SPD may be oversensitive to stimuli in the environment, such as loud noises or bright lights, or be undersensitive, seeking out more intense sensory experiences.
They may also have difficulty interpreting and responding appropriately to sensory information.
On the other hand, autism, also known as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder that affects an individual’s ability to communicate, interact socially, and behave or engage in typical activities.
People with autism may be sensitive or unresponsive to touch, environmental noises, and other sensations. However, autism involves many more aspects than just sensory processing; such as impaired social interaction and communication, repetitive behaviors, and limited interests or activities.
In conclusion, SPD and autism are two distinct conditions that can co-occur in individuals. While both conditions may involve difficulty with communication and difficulty with sensory input, SPD is not a form of autism.