The Mislabeled Child: Library: Sensory Processing

| THE MISLABELED CHILD | Brock Eide, M.D., M.A. | Fernette Eide, M.D. |

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Sensory processing problems are problems caused by any of the sensory pathways (seeing, hearing, touch and position, smell, taste) in the brain. Sensory systems rarely work in isolation. We know where we are (and what and where other things are) by the coordination of sensory-sensory systems and sensory-motor systems.

Because many sensory systems travel a long way through the central nervous system, there are many opportunities for disruptions due to mild birth injury, trauma, prematurity, deprivation, or an inherited condition.

Sensory processing problems can be difficult to diagnose because there are no easy tests to see compare what other people see, hear, smell, taste, or touch. We often have to rely on behaviors to recognize that a problem exists, but treatment requires pinpointing problems. Because sensory systems work together, a problem in one modality, for instance vision, could result in other problems that involve sensory-sensory (for instance sight and sound coordination) or sensory-motor coordination (eye-hand coordination).

Sensory processing behaviors tend to impact at least one of the five senses (sight, sound, touch / balance, smell, taste), but frequently behaviors may straddle a few of these. Because the senses are designed to alert people to danger and to help us function and negotiate our world on automatic pilot, sensory problems are often seen with sensory regulation problems (moodiness, anxiety, explosive spells) and children may not be fully aware of their overload until it's too late.

Parents and professionals should be aware that sensory processing disorders are fairly 'new' in their characterization, therefore often it's wise to research a provider's background and experience.

The good news is that sensory processing disorders are highly responsive to therapeutic or in some cases home-based activities and accommodations in routine. Knowledge really is power when it comes to sensory processing disorders.