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 this problem remains obscure. However, some recent studies suggest that there may be a genetic component. In some of the children that have been affected, there is an intrinsic anatomic abnormality in the brain. The brain-stem and the mid-brain have been singled out as the most important parts of the brain with regard to multi-sensory integration. Any problem affecting these regions may result in problems in processing stimuli.
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.
The disorder may affect only one sense or several of them at the same time. The persons affected may exhibit excessive responsiveness or under responsiveness. For instance, an individual that is over responsive may experience excessive discomfort when they hear a cricket chirping outside their house. One who has under-responsiveness, on the other hand, will be unmoved by the huge blast of a siren just next to them.
There are a number of ways in which the diagnosis can be made. These include, among others, the use of standardized questionnaires, standardized tests and free play observation. The expert responsible for making the definitive diagnosis varies from one country to another. They may be occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists and so on. In some centers, all children suspected to have the condition are subjected to a full psychological and neurological exam.
Therapy needs to be tailored to meet individual needs. This is because the pattern of presentation greatly varies from one person to another. The therapist chooses an environment that is controlled and stimulating. They incorporate fun in their activities so that the therapeutic program does not overwhelm the child. As the child continues to improve in the clinic, the same is transferred to the home and school environment.
One of the challenges that exist with regard to treatment is the fact that the condition is not yet a recognized medical diagnosis. A diagnostic criteria is yet to be developed. This notwithstanding, occupational therapists have been quite helpful to affected children and adults. The therapist will aim at ensuring that they optimize on the abilities of the patient and enable them in coping with things that they cannot tolerate.
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 this problem remains obscure. However, some recent studies suggest that there may be a genetic component. In some of the children that have been affected, there is an intrinsic anatomic abnormality in the brain. The brain-stem and the mid-brain have been singled out as the most important parts of the brain with regard to multi-sensory integration. Any problem affecting these regions may result in problems in processing stimuli.
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.
The disorder may affect only one sense or several of them at the same time. The persons affected may exhibit excessive responsiveness or under responsiveness. For instance, an individual that is over responsive may experience excessive discomfort when they hear a cricket chirping outside their house. One who has under-responsiveness, on the other hand, will be unmoved by the huge blast of a siren just next to them.
There are a number of ways in which the diagnosis can be made. These include, among others, the use of standardized questionnaires, standardized tests and free play observation. The expert responsible for making the definitive diagnosis varies from one country to another. They may be occupational therapists, physiotherapists, psychologists and so on. In some centers, all children suspected to have the condition are subjected to a full psychological and neurological exam.
Therapy needs to be tailored to meet individual needs. This is because the pattern of presentation greatly varies from one person to another. The therapist chooses an environment that is controlled and stimulating. They incorporate fun in their activities so that the therapeutic program does not overwhelm the child. As the child continues to improve in the clinic, the same is transferred to the home and school environment.
One of the challenges that exist with regard to treatment is the fact that the condition is not yet a recognized medical diagnosis. A diagnostic criteria is yet to be developed. This notwithstanding, occupational therapists have been quite helpful to affected children and adults. The therapist will aim at ensuring that they optimize on the abilities of the patient and enable them in coping with things that they cannot tolerate.
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.
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