About Sensory Processing Disorder

For most people sensory integration develops in the course of ordinary childhood activities.

But for some people, sensory integration does not develop as efficiently as it should. This is known as sensory processing disorder [SPD] or dysfunction in sensory integration [D.S.I.]. SPD can effect academic achievement, personal identity, activities of daily living, behaviour or social participation.

 Miller’s proposed taxonomy of SPD identifies 3 main categories:

• Sensory Modulation Disorders – Where there is difficulty grading or  regulating response to sensory stimulus. There are 3 subtypes: Sensory over-responsive ( where the individual responds too much, for too long or to too weak an intensity), Sensory under-responsive ( responds too little or needs extremely strong stimulus to became aware of stimulus)  and finally Sensory seeking (responds with intense searching for more or stronger stimulus)
• Sensory Based Motor Disorder – Divided into 2 proposed subtypes: Postural disorder, with disordered balance and core stability and Dyspraxia which encompasses sequencing, motor planning and organization
• Sensory Discrimination Disorder – difficulty interpreting the specific characteristics of  sensory stimuli (e.g intensity, duration, speed and timing). Can be present in  any of the 7 senses (Touch, proprioception, vestibular, visual, auditory, olfactory or gustatory)

SPD is identified across the lifespan. It can been seen in isolation or more frquently in combination with other diagnosis. These include Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Attention Deficit, Learning Disabilities, Developmental Coordination Disorder, Regulatory Disorder.