Understanding Sensory Processing Disorder
1-Sensory Modulation Disorder: This subtype involves difficulties in regulating and modulating sensory input resulting in over responsiveness or under responsiveness or both. This involves area of the brain such as the thalamus or parietal regions.
2-Sensory-based Motor Disorder: This subtype primarily affects motor skills and coordination, making tasks like writing, buttoning clothes or tyeing shoelaces difficult. This type involves the cerebellar, parietal and frontal lobe pathways.
3-Sensory Discrimination Disorder: This subtype involves difficulties in perceiving and interpreting specific sensory information accurately. This leads to difficulty distiguishing between similar textures, tastes or sounds. This type involves the interplay of the thalamus, parietal lobes and frontal lobes.
Managing SPD often involves a combination of strategies tailored to the individuals sensory needs and the brain.
What can help
1-In our clinic we use direct brain stimulation and a variety of tools to increase functionality of involved regions of the brain.
2-Sensory integration therapy: Occupational therapists with expertise in sensory integration can provide sessions to help the individual better respon to the sensory input.
3-Environmental modifications: Creating sensory-friendly environments at home, school, or work by reducing sensory triggers and providing sensory tools like fidget toys or noise-canceling headphones.
4-Communication and education: Educating family members, teachers etc about SPD can lead to better understanding and support for individuals with SPD.
5-Medication: In rare cases, medication may be prescribed to manage specific symptoms associated with SPD, such as anxiety and hyperactivity. I tell my collegues to use caution here as the brain tends to not get along well this these types of medications.