Children and adults suffering from Sensory Integration Disorder have difficulty processing sensory information from the five senses: taste, touch, vision, smell, and hearing. Those with Sensory Integration Disorder may also respond inappropriately to information received by their senses. The disorder is not currently recognized in the DSM (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.)
Many symptoms characterize Sensory Integration Disorder. A child may exhibit clumsiness, difficulty handling small objects, impulsivity, odd posture, and sensitivity to odors. Withdrawing from touch, disliking certain foods due to texture, over or under “normal” reaction to external stimuli are also symptoms of Sensory Integration Disorder. Other common signs include difficulty in calming down after experiencing a heightened alertness or activity and enjoying the same activities over and over again. Bright lights and loud noises may also be overwhelming to a person suffering from Sensory Integration Disorder.
The causes of Sensory Integration Disorder are unknown although research suggests it can be inherited. Diagnosis of Sensory Integration Disorder is usually performed by a physical or occupational therapist; diagnosis can be difficult and may be confused with many other conditions. Many medical professionals do not believe Sensory Integration Disorder is actually a distinct disorder. As very few adults are found with the disorder, some professionals believe the symptoms are a sign of neurological immaturity, or the symptoms are variations of Autism Spectrum Disorders, ADHD, OCD, or other conditions that can affect the senses.
Treatment for Sensory Integration Disorder is usually occupational therapy. The therapist focuses on “acting out” sensory functions and giving the appropriate responses with the patient. Children and adults may be exposed to extreme external stimuli, such as bright lights and loud noises, in order to adjust to their presence. Just as in the actual diagnosis of Sensory Integration Disorder, controversy also surrounds its treatment. Although many people have reported positive results and a reduction of symptoms from treatment, many professionals and some studies doubt its effectiveness.
Since Sensory Integration Disorder is commonly associated with Autism Spectrum Disorders, some medical professionals see the symptoms as part of the signs of Autism. Sensory symptoms, however, do occur in children who do not suffer from an Autism Spectrum Disorder. The symptoms can occur on their own or in addition to a disability, premature birth, or other common condition, such as OCD or ADHD. On one side of the Sensory Integration Disorder debate, many children and adults have trouble processing sensory information and have benefited from treatment focused on their sensory difficulties. On the flip side, however, adults with conditions like OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) have reported a reduction in Sensory Integration symptoms as their OCD improves, without specific treatment focused on the senses.
Should Sensory Integration Disorder be recognized as a distinct disorder? Although not recognized in the DSM, Sensory Integration Disorder is included in two separate diagnostic tools for infancy and childhood which provides the disorder with some validity. Before the disorder will be recognized in the DSM, more studies will need to be performed. If the research provides evidence supporting Sensory Integration Disorder’s distinction as unique disorder, it will be recognized in the next edition of the DSM.
Sources
MedicinNet.com Help for Sensory Integration Disorder in Kids
Bright Tots Sensory Integration / Occupational Therapy
Peter L. Heilbroner, MD, PhD, Why “Sensory Integration Disorder” Is a Dubious Diagnosis
SIAD Sensory Processing Disorder, Does it Exist?
Tim, Both Hands and a Flashlight Sensory Processing Disorder and the DSM-V– Call to Action
