Sensory processing disorder, SPD, characterized by problems in receiving and responding to stimuli at the brain level. The presentation varies from one individual to another. The most severe form is associated with in-coordination, inability to engage in a conversation and inability to perceive the position of limbs in space. There are a number of things regarding sensory processing disorder treatment Milton Ontario patients need to consider. We will explore a few of them in this article.
The cause of SPD remains largely obscure but a number of theories have been advanced. One of the theories is that this problem is genetic. Another possibility is that underlying brain problems may be a predisposing factor. The areas of the brain that are most frequently noted to exhibit one problem or the other in affected individuals are the brain-stem and the mid-brain.
Symptoms of SPD are usually first noted in early childhood. A baby with the problem will exhibit a high degree of fussiness. As they continue to grow, they will be seen to have frequent meltdowns and will throw tantrums every so often. As adolescents they are excessively anxious about every little thing. The condition is typically seen alongside other developmental and neurological disorders such as autism.
Depending on the extent to which an individual has been affected, one modality may be affected or several of them may be involved simultaneously. The two main ways in which senses are affected are hyper-responsiveness and under-responsiveness. The over responsive individual has an exaggerated response to what is deemed low level of stimulus while the under responsive one remains unmoved even when the stimulus level is way above the average.
The diagnosis is made after administration of various tests. These include, for instance, standardized tests, questionnaires and free play observation by the therapist. The therapist may either be an occupational therapist, a physiotherapist or a psychologist. In some centers, the general recommendation is that all children suspected to have this condition need to be subjected to a comprehensive neurological and psychological examination.
Therapeutic measures need to be individualized since the pattern of presentation is greatly variable. The therapist will choose an environment that stimulates the patient and is well controlled. Fun filled activities have to be incorporated into the program to avoid overwhelming the child. If the child shows some positive improvements in the clinic environment, the same should be transferred to other aspects of their lives such as home and school.
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.
Complementary and alternative medicine have also attempted to provide a solution. One of the interventions falling under this category is acupuncture. The treatment is purported to work by restoring what is termed life energy which in turn helps achieve normal functions. Scientific backing for these claims is not yet available. Other interventions are tailored to specific individual needs. For instance, sound-blocking headphones can be used by patients with auditory hypersensitivity.
The cause of SPD remains largely obscure but a number of theories have been advanced. One of the theories is that this problem is genetic. Another possibility is that underlying brain problems may be a predisposing factor. The areas of the brain that are most frequently noted to exhibit one problem or the other in affected individuals are the brain-stem and the mid-brain.
Symptoms of SPD are usually first noted in early childhood. A baby with the problem will exhibit a high degree of fussiness. As they continue to grow, they will be seen to have frequent meltdowns and will throw tantrums every so often. As adolescents they are excessively anxious about every little thing. The condition is typically seen alongside other developmental and neurological disorders such as autism.
Depending on the extent to which an individual has been affected, one modality may be affected or several of them may be involved simultaneously. The two main ways in which senses are affected are hyper-responsiveness and under-responsiveness. The over responsive individual has an exaggerated response to what is deemed low level of stimulus while the under responsive one remains unmoved even when the stimulus level is way above the average.
The diagnosis is made after administration of various tests. These include, for instance, standardized tests, questionnaires and free play observation by the therapist. The therapist may either be an occupational therapist, a physiotherapist or a psychologist. In some centers, the general recommendation is that all children suspected to have this condition need to be subjected to a comprehensive neurological and psychological examination.
Therapeutic measures need to be individualized since the pattern of presentation is greatly variable. The therapist will choose an environment that stimulates the patient and is well controlled. Fun filled activities have to be incorporated into the program to avoid overwhelming the child. If the child shows some positive improvements in the clinic environment, the same should be transferred to other aspects of their lives such as home and school.
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.
Complementary and alternative medicine have also attempted to provide a solution. One of the interventions falling under this category is acupuncture. The treatment is purported to work by restoring what is termed life energy which in turn helps achieve normal functions. Scientific backing for these claims is not yet available. Other interventions are tailored to specific individual needs. For instance, sound-blocking headphones can be used by patients with auditory hypersensitivity.
About the Author:
Find a review of the benefits you get when you receive sensory processing disorder treatment Milton Ontario area and more info about an experienced therapist at http://playfulstrides.com now.