Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): Signs, Symptoms, & Treatments

What Is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

Sensory processing disorder (SPD), or sensory integration disorder, affects how children and adults react to stimuli. In most cases, the person will be very sensitive to sensory information (hypersensitive). However, others with the condition may appear numb or desensitized to the stimulation (hyposensitive).¹

Childhood sensory disorders can leave kids feeling overwhelmed, irritated, distracted, or saddened by how something sounds, feels, looks, or tastes.^{2, 3} Like other conditions, symptom intensity will vary based on the individual, the severity of their condition, and treatment.

What Are Sensory Issues?

Sensory issues refer to difficulties processing and responding to sensory information from the environment. These challenges can manifest in various ways and vary from child to child. Sensory issues can involve either hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) or hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to sound, touch, taste, smell, or visual input.

Sensory issues in kids may feel overwhelming, uncomfortable, or even painful. For instance, a child may be hypersensitive to loud noises, covering their ears in crowded places. On the other hand, some children may seek out intense sensory input, constantly pursuing stimulation through sensory-seeking behaviors. Sensory issues can impact daily functioning, including the ability to connect with others, engage in age-appropriate activities, and regulate emotions.

What Is Sensory Overload?

Sensory overload occurs when the central nervous system becomes overwhelmed by sensory input. A person may feel anxious or distressed when encountering too much stimulation or cannot filter out irrelevant or unwanted sensory input.

Signs of sensory overload vary but may include physical discomfort or pain, irritability, avoidance of specific sensory experiences, or changes in behavior or routine. Some people may experience more severe symptoms, such as panic attacks or meltdowns. Sensory overload can be a common experience for individuals with autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Sensory Processing Disorder Symptoms

Sensory processing disorder is a complex condition, and the signs and symptoms a person may display are numerous. Because of this scope of symptoms, SPD can significantly influence senses and motor skills.

Sensory Processing Disorder Symptoms in Toddlers & Children

Parents and caregivers may begin recognizing sensory issues in toddlers early, but many children cannot communicate these struggles. Symptoms of SPD may initially appear like age-appropriate behavior. However, a child with SPD may seem stuck at this developmental level as they further develop sensory sensitivities. Because of this, parents should track patterns in behavior and triggers and seek professional help when necessary.

Symptoms of SPD in toddlers and young children may include:²

• Crying if they get wet
• Having tantrums during daily routines like getting dressed
• Seeming to have very low or very high pain thresholds
• Struggling with holding and using objects like spoons, cups, and crayons
• Running into people and walls
• Putting nonfood items in their mouths
• Being very picky about foods

Sensory Processing Disorder Symptoms in Adults

Symptoms of SPD typically begin during childhood, but a person may not become aware of them until adulthood. Adults with sensory processing disorder can experience an altered perception of the world. They may feel numb to the sights, sounds, tastes, smells, and touches in the world around them, or they could feel overloaded by the stimuli in their lives.³

Depending on the severity of these symptoms, SPD could begin to affect relationships and work. Adults with SPD may struggle to perform well during presentations in the office or provide the physical intimacy their romantic partner seeks.

Symptoms of SPD in adults may include:³

• Discomfort with human contact, like hugs
• Being picky about how clothes fill or fit
• Sensitivity to smells or tastes
• Restlessness during storms or fireworks
• Being annoyed when people play loud music
• Poor and hard-to-read handwriting
• Feeling uncomfortable in crowds

Signs of Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory processing disorder affects how the brain receives and interprets sensory information. As a result, individuals with SPD may struggle with responding to sensory input from the environment.

Signs of SPD can differ significantly depending on the person and their environment. Individuals with hypersensitivity may avoid or become anxious in situations that trigger their sensory sensitivities. On the other hand, a hyposensitive child may have a high pain tolerance or seek constant movement and sensory stimulation.

Other signs of SPD may include difficulties with motor skills, coordination, attention, organization, or regulating emotions. SPD can present differently in each individual and may vary across different sensory domains.

Signs of sensory processing disorder may include:^1,2,4

• Feeling uncomfortable in clothes and shoes
• Saying that lights are too bright or sounds are too loud
• Being very particular about foods due to textures, tastes, or smells
• Poor motor coordination, especially in sports or physical activities
• Slow or limited reactions to quick movements, loud sounds, or bright lights
• Appearing restless or fidgety
• Failing to notice social cues or respect personal space
• Picking at clothing or chewing on items

Types of Sensory Processing Disorder

SPD is a complex and multifaceted issue that involves the ability to accept, organize, interpret, and respond to new sensory information.⁵ Because of significant variations in sensory processing, the condition has several subtypes.

These subtypes affect people differently and are not mutually exclusive. For example, a person could have sensory modulation disorder with over-responsivity plus sensory discrimination disorder with a limitation in visual and taste senses. Two people could present completely different symptoms and challenges. Even though they have the same condition, their experience with the condition will be unique and individualized to them.

The types of sensory processing disorders include:⁵

• Sensory modulation disorder: People with this subtype could be over-responsive or under-responsive to sensory information. They may be sensory-craving, marked by a strong desire to receive new stimulation constantly.
• Sensory-based motor disorder: People with this type of SPD experience issues focused on organizing and interpreting sensory information. With postural control disorder, individuals struggle to stabilize and support their bodies. With dyspraxia (motor planning problems), people often appear clumsy, uncoordinated, or accident-prone.
• Sensory discrimination disorder: This issue involves struggling to note details of stimuli. A person may mistake one letter, sound, or person for another. These deficits may affect one or more senses.

Causes of Sensory Integration Disorder

The causes of sensory processing disorder remain quite mysterious. Some experts believe SPD is only related to mental health conditions like autism, ADHD, and anxiety. However, research suggests a combination of genetic and environmental factors may contribute to the development of the condition.

Some research indicates SPD could run in families, meaning parents pass the condition to children.¹ Certain genetic variations or mutations may affect how the brain processes and responds to sensory input, leading to sensory integration difficulties.

Additionally, early childhood factors, such as maternal stress or specific prenatal exposures, may also play a role in development. Birth complications, including premature birth, have also been suggested as potential risk factors for SPD. However, experts are still investigating the specific mechanisms through which these factors contribute to the development of sensory integration disorder.

How Is SPD Diagnosed?

An SPD diagnosis involves a comprehensive assessment conducted by trained professionals, such as occupational therapists or neuropsychologists specializing in sensory processing. The evaluation typically includes several components, including clinical observations, interviews with the individual and their caregivers, and standardized assessments.

During the assessment, the clinician will gather information about sensory-related behaviors, responses to various sensory stimuli, and how these behaviors impact daily functioning. They may also examine motor skills, coordination, and other areas of development that can be affected by sensory integration difficulties. The clinician will compare these behaviors and responses to established criteria for sensory processing disorder.

The diagnostic process for SPD can vary depending on the clinician and the specific diagnostic tools used. The diagnostic criteria for SPD are still evolving, and ongoing research seeks to refine and clarify this basis. Therefore, consult a qualified professional for a comprehensive evaluation if you have concerns about sensory processing difficulties in yourself or a child.

Possible Complications of SPD

Symptoms of SPD may only mildly impact a person initially. However, symptoms could drastically affect the quality of life, relationships, and happiness as they progress. Unfortunately, people with SPD may not simply “grow out” of the condition, though the symptoms may shift in other directions.

Impacts of sensory processing disorder may include:

• Anxiety: SPD can cause heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli, leading to increased anxiety and stress in specific environments or situations.
• Social and emotional challenges: Difficulties with sensory processing can affect social interactions and emotional regulation. Individuals with SPD may struggle to make and form relationships, understand social cues, and express emotions appropriately.
• Academic and learning difficulties: Sensory processing difficulties can interfere with attention, focus, and concentration, impacting academic performance. Tasks that require organization, fine motor skills, or coordination may be particularly challenging.
• Behavioral issues: SPD can contribute to behavioral problems, such as impulsivity, tantrums, or difficulty with self-regulation. These behaviors may result from efforts to cope with overwhelming or aversive sensory input.
• Motor skill development delays: SPD can affect motor coordination and development, leading to challenges with activities that require fine or gross motor skills, such as writing, buttoning clothes, or riding a bike.
• Poor self-esteem and self-confidence: Persistent sensory difficulties can impact self-esteem as individuals may feel different because they cannot engage in the same activities as their peers.

Sensory Processing Disorder & Co-Occurring Conditions

Sensory processing disorder is often associated with neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism, ADHD, and anxiety. For example, sensory sensitivities or aversions are common among those on the autism spectrum. Similarly, individuals with ADHD may exhibit sensory-seeking behaviors, such as fidgeting or tapping, to help regulate their sensory systems.

Co-occurring conditions are often interrelated. SPD may contribute to the severity of symptoms related to other conditions, especially when a person feels overwhelmed and unable to process sensory input. Understanding these connections and addressing sensory processing difficulties can improve the effectiveness of interventions and overall outcomes for individuals with co-occurring conditions.

Controversies About SPD

Currently, SPD is a controversial topic with a lot of debate among experts, and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) does not acknowledge SPD as a diagnosable condition. However, some professionals believe sensory processing disorder should be recognized in the DSM because symptoms significantly impact life and well-being. Others claim SPD is a symptom of related conditions like autism, anxiety, or ADHD. On the other hand, one group views SPD as typical childhood behavior, arguing that diagnosis and treatment are unnecessary.

Sensory Processing Disorder Treatment Options

Frequently, physicians and occupational therapists will employ various therapeutic interventions to treat sensory processing disorder. Treatment will focus on working to regulate or enhance sensory processing abilities.

Therapy Options

For those with co-occurring SPD and autism, ADHD, or anxiety, mental health treatment can address distressful symptoms.⁶ A therapist can help gradually and systematically expose clients to uncomfortable and distressing stimuli, allowing them to work through their sensory sensitivities.

Treatments for sensory processing disorder may include:¹

• Sensory integration therapy (SI): With SI, a therapist exposes the person to sensory elements using fun and engaging activities in a calm and controlled environment. Over time, the person can build helpful coping skills to manage discomfort from various situations and stimulation.
• Sensory diet: A sensory diet aims to improve sensory processing by planning and scheduling events, activities, and items to help stay focused and on task. The preventative process helps reduce boredom and overstimulation by adjusting the environment according to individual needs. Walking, wearing headphones, fidgeting with a toy, and changing chairs are all options.
• Occupational therapy: Writing clearly, using scissors, scooping with a spoon, and kicking or catching a ball could be major obstacles for someone with SPD. Occupational therapy can help fine-tune these skills through repetition and professional guidance.

Medication

Research does not support medication as a first-line treatment for SPD. However, those interested in SPD treatment can ask their doctor if any medications may help with sensory processing problems.¹

Some medications can help manage symptoms linked to co-occurring mental health issues that could disrupt SPD treatment. For example, a person with SPD and ADHD may benefit from stimulants or nonstimulants to treat poor attention and hyperactivity. This way, treatment can better address presenting sensory processing problems without having to navigate ADHD symptoms.

How to Find a Therapist for SPD

Your PCP or pediatrician will be the best resource for finding an occupational or mental health therapist. You can also ask your insurance company or another parent for recommendations. Alternatively, browsing an online directory can help when finding the right therapist. Look for someone who views SPD as a stand-alone disorder so you can receive the best care for yourself or your child.

How to Help a Child With Sensory Processing Disorder

When supporting a child with SPD, create a sensory-friendly environment and provide strategies to help them cope with sensory overload. Identifying their specific sensory triggers and providing accommodations can also be beneficial. Consider reducing environmental stimuli, such as noise or bright lights, and providing sensory breaks, weighted blankets, or noise-canceling headphones.

Teaching the child self-regulation techniques, including deep breathing exercises or mindfulness techniques, can empower them to manage sensory overload independently. A consistent routine and clear expectations can offer predictability and reduce anxiety associated with sensory challenges.

Here are some ways to help a child with SPD:

• Create a sensory-friendly environment: Designate safe spaces for the child to retreat when feeling overwhelmed. Consider factors such as lighting, noise levels, and texture of surfaces to make the environment more soothing and predictable.
• Provide sensory breaks: Allow the child regular breaks during activities or tasks to engage in sensory activities that provide input, such as jumping on a trampoline or using a sensory swing. These breaks can help regulate their sensory system and reduce sensory overload.
• Use visual supports: Utilize schedules, timers, or cue cards to provide a visual structure and clear expectations. These tools help the child understand transitions and better navigate their day.
• Incorporate deep pressure techniques: Deep pressure can have a calming effect on individuals with SPD. Weighted blankets, deep-pressure massages, or compression clothing can provide the desired input and promote relaxation.
• Gradual exposure to new stimuli: Introduce new sensory experiences gradually at their pace to help them become more comfortable and desensitized to distressing sensory stimuli.
• Provide sensory-friendly tools: Offer supportive sensory tools, such as fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, or chewable items, to help the child self-regulate and enhance their focus and attention.
• Practice patience and understanding: Understand their sensory experiences may differ from yours and be patient with their reactions or behaviors. Offering reassurance, empathy, and a non-judgmental approach can foster a supportive environment.