Sensory Processing: Breaking it down

Sensory Processing Break Down

Functional sensorimotor development is built on accurate registration and processing of sensory information (from all 7 sensory systems)

Sensory modulation is the foundation… therefore, if there is a deficit at the modulation level then there will also be a deficit as the discrimination level.

Sensory Modulation

Our CNS modulates sensory input so that we are able to remain at an appropriate level of organization, alertness, and arousal. An individual can be over-responsive, under-responsive, or sensory seeking. A child may be in a constant state of fight or flight, limit their interaction with their environment, or engage in unsafe behaviors depending on their ability to modulate incoming sensory input.

Sensory Discrimination

Discrimination is the ability to interpret information. It allows you to compare various details and disregard irrelevant or extraneous information. A disorder at the discrimination level means that you have difficulty interpreting information. Discrimination difficulties can exist within all sensory systems.

Sensory Based Motor

In order to have intact and automatic higher level skills, such as efficient postural control, bilateral coordination, and fine motor, a child’s sensory modulation and discrimination skills must be acting efficiently in processing information in the brain. The two domains include postural stability and dyspraxia.

What does this all mean?

Stay tuned for our break down of each subset of sensory processing disorder…

Collins, Ms, OTR/L, Britt, and Lucy Jane Miller, MS, OTR/L. “Sensory Overresponsivity.” Autism Asperger’s Digest, Jan. 2012, pp. 12–13., https://www.spdstar.org/sites/default/files/publications/Sensory Overresponsivity .pdf.