Sensory Processing Dysfunction - It's not Just a Diagnosis for Children
By Carrie Pike, OT

Sensory processing dysfunction is a condition in which one’s sensory system does not process input ranging from sound, light, sights, tastes, and touch properly.  Sensation can be OVER registered or UNDER registered and any combination of the two across the different senses. When one over registers input, they are over sensitive to it and generally over react to it such as startling at noises, not being able to tolerate touch from others, being overly sensitive to light to the point that it hurts one’s eyes.  When one under registers input, their system does not recognize normal stimulation occurring around them such as missing auditory cues like someone calling your name, not being able to find items when looking for them, or touching things and people frequently due to not registering touch sensation accurately.

Sensory processing dysfunction is fairly well known in the pediatric community. However, it occurs just as frequently in the adult population as well. Unfortunately, most adults with sensory processing dysfunction simply label their sensory quirks as just that.  These sensory quirks can range in severity from not being able to tolerate certain fabrics or textures to not being able to engage in an intimate relationship of any kind due to over sensitivity to touch.  Some people avoid stimuli that are bothersome or irritating to them and therefore don’t display over reactions while others do not avoid it and do over react. Some over reactions can result in aggression or anxiety attacks.

Fortunately, if a person recognizes any of these attributes in themselves, there is help. Occupational therapists have special training and knowledge in sensory processing.  An occupational therapist can evaluate your sensory processing system through skilled observation and interview then make suggestions on how to help re-organize your sensory system.

So, if you are fussy about clothing, an extremely picky eater, irritated by light touch, anxious in an elevator, excessively ticklish, startle easily at noise, or have difficulty concentrating due to distractions all around you, you may be experiencing sensory processing dysfunction and would benefit from an occupational therapy sensory assessment.

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