February 1, 2024

Sensory Modulation

Sensory modulation is a neurological function and is the organization of sensory information for on-going use. Efficient sensory modulation is the ability to effectively regulate the degree to which one is influenced by various sensory inputs.

WHAT IS SENSORY MODULATION?

Sensory modulation is a neurological function and is the organization of sensory information for on-going use. Efficient sensory modulation is the ability to effectively regulate the degree to which one is influenced by various sensory inputs. The goal is to regulate sensory input and to “make sense of the physical world” and the “place of self within that world.” That is, efficient sensory modulation allows the central nervous system to regulate such things as attention and activity level by enabling one to attend to important stimuli, filter out irrelevant stimuli, and modify the amount of stimulation one is exposed to.

Typically, healthy sensory modulation occurs automatically, unconsciously and without effort in normally developing children. For children with a variety of developmental challenges, the process is inefficient, demanding effort and attention with no guarantee of accuracy.

WHAT ARE SOME SYMPTOMS OF SENSORY MODULATION DISORDERS?

Children with sensory modulation disorders may demonstrate behaviors appearing over-responsive to sensory input at one end (e.g., fearful of movement experiences, defensive to tactile input, etc.), to appearing under-responsive to sensory input at the other end (e.g., lack of awareness of tactile or auditory input, intense desire for movement stimulation, etc.). Often, children with sensory modulation disorders will fluctuate between the two extremes. Additionally, children with sensory modulation disorders will also often have difficulty with emotional/behavioral regulation.

When the central nervous system is working well, it knows when to “pay attention” to a sensory stimulus and when to “ignore it,” and this process usually happens efficiently and automatically. For most children, sensory modulation develops in the course of ordinary childhood activities, and when the process is disordered, a number of problems in learning, development or behavior may become evident. The affects of sensory modulation disorders can interfere with academic learning, social skills and self-esteem.

Another symptom of a sensory modulation disorder is poor registration of sensory input, interfering with the child’s ability to attach meaning to an activity or a sensation. Children with such a disorder often seem oblivious to touch, pain, movement, taste, smells, sights or sounds. A child may demonstrate sensation-seeking behaviors, occurring when the child registers the sensation, but the input does not affect the nervous system to the extent that it does for most other children. These children are also almost always in “fight or flight” mode and exceedingly defensive; their defensiveness activates the autonomic nervous system and results in a strong negative, emotional reaction. Sensory modulation problems in the defensive form include overreactions to touch, movement, sounds, odors, and tastes, any of which may create discomfort, avoidance, distractibility, and anxiety.

OUR APPROACH AT NORTH SHORE PEDIATRIC THERAPY

Occupational therapists at North Shore Pediatric Therapy provide a fun and safe atmosphere when working with children who have sensory modulation difficulties. Treatment techniques used to improve sensory modulation focus on sensory integration therapy, and the treatments frequently incorporate activities involving vestibular stimulation and proprioceptive input, typically through the use of swings, obstacles courses, therapy balls, or some type of heavy work.

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Although we talk about our services here, our highest goal is for you to feel comfortable and knowledgeable about picking a provider that is the best fit for your needs. You are making a decision that will impact the entire trajectory of your child’s life!
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The cover of the NSPT Guide for Families, which helps families to figure out the questions to ask when picking an ABA provider.

Testimonials

Success looks different for every child... But we bet we have a story that matches your child's needs. Like James, who started with us as non-speaking and lacking the ability to initiate and maintain social interactions. Today, he can speak complete sentences, clearly state his needs, and navigate social interactions with his friends!

Our infant daughter was in physical therapy with Anna Zahn for about five months.  Anna was consistent, patient, and wonderful with our daughter.  Anna was also clear in her communications with us as parents which helped us understand our daughter's progress and needs, as well as how we could help our daughter at home.  While we are proud that our daughter graduated PT, we will miss Anna's warmth and kindness.

Emily

I love this place! Chista is an amazing person, so sweet and kind and very professional in her work. All staff are very kind with children. I feel happy to find this place for my daughter. Thank you!!!

Maria Di Rita

I cannot say enough nice things about the staff! My son worked with Khadija as his ABA therapist and is finishing up this week with his OT, Sabrina. They were really instrumental in helping us navigate a new diagnosis. Both were so easy to approach with questions. From Leeann at the front desk to the RBTs (Alex, Rabbia, Molly, and many others), we always felt so welcomed. It seems like the staff genuinely enjoy their jobs, consistently offering feedback and suggestions on how to help my son.

Jennifer Peyer

We have been working with the amazing team at NSPT for many years. They have been essential in understanding and supporting our child. I recommend their services to anyone looking for their specific type of support.Posted to

Monica Terése Carranza

They are so sweet and kinds persons with professionalism and really worried about the kids and how help they to get new skills and moving forward with knowledge.

Alejandra M.

NSPT is fantastic! All of the staff are wonderful, accomodating, and make you feel welcome and comfortable. Alan is fantastic - he has helped our family tremendously and has such patience and purpose in everything he does.

Alex Ehrhardt

North Shore Pediatric Therapy has been amazing.  They have done a great job adjusting to the specific needs of my autistic child.

Matt Nakanishi

My 12 yr old son has a lovely support team in Robert (Social Work) and Lindsay (OT)! He gains so much from his sessions & I gain so much from the communication and brainstorming! Thanks!

Jennie Meyer

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