Effective Treatments for Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory processing disorder (SPD) can significantly impact the daily lives of those affected, particularly children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Dr. Danish and his team at Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry frequently work with patients experiencing SPD, employing a variety of interventions to help manage symptoms. These interventions are part of a comprehensive treatment plan that combines therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and other supportive measures. By addressing the multifaceted nature of SPD, Dr. Danish aims to improve the quality of life for his patients through personalized care. 

Research has shown that certain interventions can be effective in managing atypical sensory processing symptoms in children with ASD. A systematic review by Weitlauf et al. (2017) evaluated various interventions, categorizing them into five main types. Below, we explore these interventions and their effectiveness in addressing sensory processing challenges. 

Sensory Integration-Based Approaches 

Sensory integration-based approaches involve a combination of sensory and kinetic methods. These interventions may include exposure to materials with different textures, touch, massage, swinging, trampoline exercises, balance exercises, and muscle resistance exercises. The review found that these approaches led to improvements in sensory symptoms and motor skills, making them a valuable tool for managing SPD. 

Environmental-Enrichment Based Strategies 

These strategies expose children to specific sensory stimuli to increase their tolerance in various situations. Although the primary aim is to improve sensory processing, the review found that these interventions were particularly effective in enhancing nonverbal cognitive skills. 

Auditory Integration-Based Approaches 

Auditory integration approaches, such as filtered sound methods, aim to improve auditory processing. However, the review did not find evidence supporting improvements in language skills through these methods. Previous studies, including those on Auditory Integration Therapy, Tomatis Method, and Samonas Sound Therapy, also did not provide conclusive evidence of their effectiveness. 

Massage-Based Interventions 

Massage-based interventions focus on using bodily massage, either by a trained therapist or a caregiver. The review found that these interventions led to improvements in general symptom severity and sensory challenges in children with ASD, highlighting their potential benefit in managing SPD.

Music Therapy-Based Interventions 

Music therapy involves playing music, singing, and movement to the music. Although the review could not draw definitive conclusions due to methodological differences, other studies suggest that music therapy may help improve social interaction, verbal communication, initiating behavior, social-emotional reciprocity, non-verbal communication skills, social adaptation skills, and the quality of parent-child relationships. Specialized training is recommended for practitioners using music therapy with children with ASD. 

Other Interventions 

This category includes miscellaneous interventions such as weighted blankets. While more research is needed, these interventions are generally considered safe and may offer short-term benefits for managing SPD symptoms. 

Getting in Touch with Dr. Danish and His Team 

At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we pride ourselves on practicing the subtle nuances of psychiatry, a field often prone to misdiagnoses and inaccurate assessments. We strive to provide the level of care we would want for our own family members. Our holistic and integrative approach ensures that we consider all aspects of our patients' well-being in developing personalized treatment plans. If you or a loved one are seeking support for SPD or similar conditions, please text or call 610-999-6414 to learn how we can help. 

For more on this topic and related subjects, check out these blogs: 

1. This blog looks at the role sensory processing concerns play in many patients with ADHD. 

2. This blog looks at ARFID, which is a subtype of sensory processing disorder. 3. This blog looks at PDA, or Pathological Demand Avoidance, which can lead to rage and regular outbursts in patients who do not fit criteria for ASD. 

4. This blog dives further into sensory processing disorder including research that backs up both diagnosing and treating it.