Sensory Integration Dysfunction

Sensory integration dysfunction is when a child is not able to manage the information coming in through their senses. This may interfere with learning, playing, social interaction, and completing daily activities of life. You may also hear this condition referred to as sensory processing disorder (or SPD).

Sensory integration dysfunction may affect only one sense – such as sight or hearing – or it can impact multiple senses. This condition impacts each child in a different way.

Signs and symptoms of sensory integration dysfunction may include:

• Unusual sensitivity to clothing or getting dressed
• Unusual discomfort with hair washing, bathing, brushing teeth, or diaper changes Avoidance of contact with sand, dirt, finger paints, or glue
• Unusual sensitivity to tastes or smells
• Avoidance of climbing, swinging, sliding, or going up or down escalators, elevators, or stairs
• Unusual sensitivity to louder sounds or environments
• Challenges with hand coordination or handwriting
• Challenges with movement or coordination
• Challenges with motor planning such as imitation, variety of play, or participation in team sports
• Insensitivity to pain and temperature changes
• Unusual pickiness when eating
• Unusual sloppiness with eating or overstuffs mouth
• Chewing or eating non-food objects
• Unusual need for movement (e.g. fidgets, rocks, and spins)
• Clumsiness with frequent falls, seeming to be “accident-prone”

If you think your child may have a sensory integration difficulty, discuss this with your primary care doctor. You can also call for an appointment at one of the Intermountain pediatric outpatient rehabilitation sites.

The exact cause of sensory integration dysfunction is still unknown.

Your child can be evaluated for sensory integration with an occupational therapy evaluation. This may include a parent interview, sensory checklists, and standardized testing.

You and your child’s occupational therapist will develop a sensory treatment plan. Together you will work towards your child’s goals with therapy, parent education, and home activities. An occupational therapist will provide therapy in a special sensory-rich therapy play environment, with activities that are meaningful to your child.

Sensory Integration Dysfunction can't be prevented.