Sensory Defensiveness & Sensory Diet
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Sensory Defensiveness Definitions and Key Concepts Sensory Defensiveness is a constellation of symptoms that are the result of adversive or defensive reactions to non – noxious stimuli across one or more sensory modalities. It is an over reaction of our normal protective senses. Individuals with sensory defensiveness have their own response style. There may be patterns of avoidance, sensory seeking, fear, anxiety, or even aggression. Social and Emotional Disorders Related to Sensory Defensiveness are a pattern of learned behaviors that create habits and interaction styles that are protective and defensive in nature. These stress and anxiety reactions can continue after the primary symptoms of sensory defensiveness are no longer present. TYPES OF SENSORY DEFENSIVENESS: Tactile Defensiveness is an over reaction to touch experiences. This may result in avoiding touch from others, dislike of crowds, irritation when having their hair washed or cut, avoidance of certain types of clothing, and many other similar reactions to touching or being touched. Tactile defensiveness was first described by A. Jean Ayres in a Oral defensiveness is an avoidance of certain textures of food and irritation with activities using the mouth in general. The patterns of avoidance are unique to each individual. Some avoid soft slimy foods, others, rough texture etc…. Gravitational and Postural Insecurity is an overacting or a fearfulness of movement or change in posture. Some individuals are alarmed when walking down open stairs, riding on escalators etc…. There may be a dislike of swings and carnival rides. Auditory Defensiveness is an over sensitivity to certain sounds. Vacuum cleaners, fire alarms or other noises trigger an alarm response. Visual Defensiveness is an over sensitivity to light, visual distractibility, and often gave avoidance. Other sensitivities can include heightened smell and taste proprioceptive system irritability.
Sensory Diet A and B are required with each session. A. Brushing using a rectangular scrub brush: (can be purchased in some medical supply stores or in catalogs or on the net) · Back, arms and legs – using an up and down motion over the whole body part briskly and regulating the pressure according to child’s wishes, e.g., softer or harder. Do for 30 – 45 seconds per area. If one extremity is brushed always do the opposite extremity, including the hands and feet as possible. Always keep hand / brush contact with child once process is started and lead into the next extremity. B. Pressure, compression, and pushing: · Shoulders, elbows, wrists, hips, knees, and ankles – Activities include pushing against resistance provided by your hands, having the child push heavy objects, jumping on a mini –trampoline. Picture each joint mentioned working against a force provided either by your hands or the activity. When to do:
** A and B should be accomplished in about 3 or 4 minutes once routine has been established. Each item could take longer if the child wishes or if time allows. Each routine session should be done regularly at 2 hour intervals or more frequently as needed. Comment adter charting each session, if possible, to keep track of reactions during and following treatment. Remember to observe child as to best results.  Thanks for the explanation on Sid Therapies. I notoced that my son's first OT used the vest with Benjamin. I was recently told how to get a decent OT for Benjamin at school. I plan to include some of the items that you mentioned in the IEP discussioon/plan. Thanks JanetHi Janet Glad it was of some help you may want to take a look at specific disability class modifications or whatever the proper title is,... it may also help if not much now certainly in the future...  |
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