Is Sensory Processing Disorder or Sensory Integration Dysfunction recognised in U.K.?

[Blossom4538]

Paed says not (US thing). She seems to think it's all a part of autism spectrum condition....

DD def has sensory struggles. Currently sat in her pants...! Refusing to do anything today. Not a great day today.

Also, can Sensory struggles worsen and why? Anxiety related? DD seems worse with tactile at the moment - clothes and tooth brushing are a nightmare. Getting ready in the morning is horrendous.

[tartanterror]

SPD is not listed in the DSM V which is the diagnostic manual from the US which is generally followed here. ICD10 is the european version and is closely tied the the american version. Having said that sensory issues are listed under ASD as part of the pattern.

Have you looked into trying a Sensory Diet? You can use what helps your DD (And avoid things that make her worse) - some people use weighted blankets, trampolines, holding/hanging upside down etc etc. It's a bit trial and error unless you can afford a private sensory OT to work it all out for you. Obviously what they can do in a couple of hours for ££ may take you weeks or months to figure out, but it's worth looking into. There are loads of sites, but here is one of the first that google offered me.

We also did a Listening Programme at home (i wanted to get TLP as a pHD in Edinburgh got good results for ASD kids but we went with iLS as that was the only headset available at the right time/price) which was really interesting. Really calmed him down and made him more confident in subtle ways. He's never got on playground swings in 7 years for example and with the headset on was able to try - and also started to be able to move his body in a way to propel the swing. Yes I know that sounds like nothing if your DC is active, but that is a big deal for us as DS' balance is really dodgy, although he masks well.

[Blossom4538]

thanks, just received my copy of that book.

[Ineedmorepatience]

Dd3 has a dx of Sensory Integration Dysfunction. She was diagnosed by an NHS OT.

They could not offer sensory intergration therapy but have been supportive with ideas.

[tartanterror]

You could call your local OT service to ask - ours don't do any sensory work at all :(

[littledinaco]

You need an OT with sensory intergration. There are not many in NHS depending on area but you may be able to find a private one.

You can have ASD on its own without SPD and SPD without ASD but often they are linked.

Sensory issues can get worse and yes, can be linked to anxiety aswel as other factors (lack of the right sensory input, sensory overload, being tired, etc).

You need a sensory diet linked to your DDs particular needs as different children are over and under responsive in different areas so need different sensory imput. For example, some children find bouncing up and down on a trampoline calming, others find it too stimulating.