Neurological and developmental disorders are broadly divided into two: sensory and motor. One of the commonest disorders is a condition known as sensory processing disorder (SPD). Persons suffering from this conditions have difficulties perceiving sensory stimuli in their environment and responding to them appropriately. There are a number of modalities of sensory processing disorder treatment Milton Ontario residents can consider. We will look at some of them in this article.
It is not yet clear as to what the cause of SPD is but ongoing research is promising. It is now emerging that genetics have a big role to play in the development of the condition. The identity of the affected genes is yet to be uncovered. Another common finding among affected persons is an anatomic or functional abnormality at brain level. The mid-brain and the brain stem are the two regions that are most likely to be involved.
The observant parent will first notice the problem in early childhood. A baby with the condition is typically excessively fussy and as they grow older, they tend to throw tantrums more frequently than the average baby. As they get into adolescence, they will mainly present with frequent bouts of anxiety. It has been observed that SPD never presents in isolation; it is usually associated with other neurological and developmental conditions such as autism.
Either one or several modalities are affected at given time depending on the underlying abnormalities. There are two main ways in which the problem presents. These are either under or over responsiveness. An individual that is under-responsive to stimuli does not react in the presence of an enhanced level of stimuli such as excessive heat or the blast of a siren. The other end of the spectrum is where the individual reacts excessively to a low stimulus level.
To diagnose the condition, a number of things have to be taken into consideration. Tools that are useful in this area include free play observation, standardized tests and standardized questionnaires. The therapists that make the diagnosis differ depending on the country. They include psychologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists. Some experts recommend that children suspected to be suffering from this condition need to have a full psychological and neurological examination.
Since the severity and pattern of presentation varies, there is a need to ensure that therapy is individualized. The therapist will work in a controlled, stimulating environment. They will include fun-filled activities in the program so that the sensory integration program is not perceived by the child as being overwhelming. The gains that are made in the clinic are then gradually extended to their lives at home, school and life in general.
The condition is yet to be recognized as a medical diagnosis which presents a major challenge in instituting therapy. This notwithstanding, occupational therapists continue to provide tremendous help to children that are affected. The therapist should aim at making sure that the inherent abilities of the child are maximized. The patients should be helped to tackle the challenging areas of their lives in a gradual manner.
Several alternative treatments are also said to be quite effective in managing the condition. Acupuncture is one of the most commonly used therapies under this category. However, the effectiveness is yet to be proven scientifically. Another alternative therapy that has been tried with varying success rates is what is referred to as craniofacial manipulation. Others include the use of sound-blocking headphones (in the case of auditory hypersensitivity).
It is not yet clear as to what the cause of SPD is but ongoing research is promising. It is now emerging that genetics have a big role to play in the development of the condition. The identity of the affected genes is yet to be uncovered. Another common finding among affected persons is an anatomic or functional abnormality at brain level. The mid-brain and the brain stem are the two regions that are most likely to be involved.
The observant parent will first notice the problem in early childhood. A baby with the condition is typically excessively fussy and as they grow older, they tend to throw tantrums more frequently than the average baby. As they get into adolescence, they will mainly present with frequent bouts of anxiety. It has been observed that SPD never presents in isolation; it is usually associated with other neurological and developmental conditions such as autism.
Either one or several modalities are affected at given time depending on the underlying abnormalities. There are two main ways in which the problem presents. These are either under or over responsiveness. An individual that is under-responsive to stimuli does not react in the presence of an enhanced level of stimuli such as excessive heat or the blast of a siren. The other end of the spectrum is where the individual reacts excessively to a low stimulus level.
To diagnose the condition, a number of things have to be taken into consideration. Tools that are useful in this area include free play observation, standardized tests and standardized questionnaires. The therapists that make the diagnosis differ depending on the country. They include psychologists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists. Some experts recommend that children suspected to be suffering from this condition need to have a full psychological and neurological examination.
Since the severity and pattern of presentation varies, there is a need to ensure that therapy is individualized. The therapist will work in a controlled, stimulating environment. They will include fun-filled activities in the program so that the sensory integration program is not perceived by the child as being overwhelming. The gains that are made in the clinic are then gradually extended to their lives at home, school and life in general.
The condition is yet to be recognized as a medical diagnosis which presents a major challenge in instituting therapy. This notwithstanding, occupational therapists continue to provide tremendous help to children that are affected. The therapist should aim at making sure that the inherent abilities of the child are maximized. The patients should be helped to tackle the challenging areas of their lives in a gradual manner.
Several alternative treatments are also said to be quite effective in managing the condition. Acupuncture is one of the most commonly used therapies under this category. However, the effectiveness is yet to be proven scientifically. Another alternative therapy that has been tried with varying success rates is what is referred to as craniofacial manipulation. Others include the use of sound-blocking headphones (in the case of auditory hypersensitivity).
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