Sensory integration is the process by which we perceive the world around us. We use our sensory organs to absorb information, which we then arrange on a higher level so that we may understand our surroundings and respond properly.

To summarize, humans perceive, organize, modify, and interpret sensory information.

Most people are not aware that failures in sensory processing can affect:

behavior
communication
function
successful participation in daily life

When we hear a bee buzzing near our head, we instinctively swat to avoid being bitten. The scent of burning in the kitchen alerts us to the likelihood of a fire, and we take action to avert it.

However, certain people do not always absorb sensory input correctly. This is known as sensory processing disorder or SPD.

When SPD is present, life can be pretty unpleasant. If children have severe sensory overreactions, they may shut down and withdraw totally from their surroundings.

Sensory Integration Therapy is the most commonly used approach to aid with SPD symptoms.

Sensory processing problems impact up to one out of every twenty children, and the numbers are growing. More studies are being conducted to determine the causes and incidence of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD).

In fact, as our expertise and knowledge base expanded, the nomenclature was modified from Sensory Integration (SI) Dysfunction. Dr. A. Jean Ayers, an occupational therapist, discovered sensory integration in the 1970s.

SPD is a complex brain disease that causes trouble processing information received through our senses.

Sensory processing disorder is widespread among people who also have developmental impairments. In reality, the American Academy of Pediatrics (and other sources) have found that sensory processing difficulties are highly common in people with autism spectrum disorders.

It is critical to recognize that there are more than the five senses most of us are familiar with.

Information is collected from:

Senses: touch, smell, and vision.
Hearing Taste Vestibular
Internal Organs (Interoception)
Proprioceptive receptors

Vestibular receptors sense changes in position, balance, and movement.

Proprioceptive receptors send signals concerning body awareness, location, and posture.

Interoception refers to the internal regulating responses in our bodies, such as hunger, thirst, blood pressure, and even toileting desires.

Throughout our lives, we are continually assaulted with information received through our senses, which we must successfully integrate in order to make sense of it and respond appropriately. There are situations when the response we provide does not correspond to the information we received.

For example, a student may experience a fear reaction when another child bumps into him in line. Another example is when a student experiences pain when wearing clothing with tags or seams.

What's interesting about sensory processing is that most tasks need us to mix data from many senses at the same time! When you close your eyes to wash your hair, you know exactly where to position your shampoo-soaked hands.

Even though you aren't looking, you rub the shampoo into your hair and feel when it's soapy. This activity involves tactile (touch), proprioception (position in space), and vestibular (balance to avoid falling over with your eyes closed).

If a person becomes dizzy when her eyes are closed, she may have a tough time washing her hair since she must keep her eyes open, and soap may get into her eyes!

Sensory Integration Therapy with Sensory Swing

Children with sensory processing issues can benefit from an innovative treatment called Sensory Integration Therapy with Sensory Swing. To give vestibular input that helps enhance balance, coordination, and overall sensory regulation, this therapy makes use of specially designed sensory swings for children. Children can improve their capacity to process sensory information, which will improve their focus, emotional control, and physical development, by participating in activities that activate the vestibular system. Children can enjoy the safety and benefits of sensory integration with the help of sensory swings, which are an indispensable element in this therapy. Go to Savoiz to find out more.