Sensory Processing Support Adelaide

What is Sensory Processing?

Sensory processing is how the brain receives, organises, and interprets sensory information from the environment and the body. This information is gathered by sensory receptors and transmitted to the brain, which processes it to create appropriate physical or behavioural responses. Sensory processing is fundamental to how we experience the world and interact with it.

The Seven Key Senses

The sensory system includes seven key senses:

1. Touch (Tactile): Helps us perceive textures, temperature, and pressure.

2. Hearing (Auditory): Allows us to process sounds from our environment.

3. Taste (Gustatory): Enables us to distinguish flavours and preferences.

4. Smell (Olfactory): Helps us detect and identify odours.

5. Sight (Visual): Provides information about colours, shapes, and movement.

6. Movement (Vestibular): Helps us maintain balance and spatial awareness.

7. Body Position (Proprioception): Gives us a sense of where our body parts are in space and how they are moving.

When sensory processing functions smoothly, these senses help us learn, explore, and adapt to our surroundings. However, when sensory processing is disrupted, it can lead to challenges in managing these sensory inputs effectively.

Examples of Sensory Processing in Everyday Life

Positive Sensory Experiences

Imagine the first day of spring. You feel the warmth of the sun on your face, smell blossoming flowers, and hear birds chirping. Your sensory system processes these inputs, influencing your behaviour—you may remove your jacket, step outside, and relax in the garden to enjoy the season.

Protective Sensory Responses

Your sensory system also helps protect you from harm. For example, if you smell food burning on the stove, feel the heat of a fire, and hear the smoke alarm, your brain processes these inputs, triggering an immediate response to move to safety.

These examples illustrate how sensory processing is essential for both enjoying the environment and staying safe.

What Are Sensory Processing Difficulties?

Sensory processing difficulties occur when the brain struggles to interpret or respond to sensory information effectively. These challenges can result in being overly sensitive (hyper-responsive) or under-sensitive (hypo-responsive) to stimuli.

Types of Sensory Processing Challenges

1. Sensory Over-Responsiveness (Hyper-Responsiveness):
   Individuals may have heightened sensitivity to sensory input, often avoiding certain stimuli:

   • Disliking certain textures, such as scratchy clothing or messy play.

   • Being startled by loud noises or bright lights.

   • Avoiding physical contact, like hugs or handshakes.

2. Sensory Under-Responsiveness (Hypo-Responsiveness):
   Individuals may have reduced awareness of sensory input and seek additional stimuli:

   • Failing to notice when touched or bumped.

   • Seeking excessive sensory input, like spinning or touching objects repeatedly.

   • Being unaware of physical sensations, such as hunger or pain.

Who Can Be Affected by Sensory Processing Difficulties?

Sensory processing challenges can impact people of all ages and abilities. They are often associated with:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Sensory sensitivities are common in individuals with autism.

• Developmental Delays: Children with delayed milestones may face sensory challenges.

• Learning and Attention Difficulties: Sensory issues can affect focus and classroom engagement.

• Neurological Conditions: Brain injuries or strokes can alter sensory processing.

Signs of Sensory Processing Challenges

Noticing the signs of sensory processing difficulties early can make a significant difference. Common indicators include:

• Difficulty transitioning between activities or environments.

• Overwhelmed by noisy or crowded spaces.

• Avoidance of certain textures, sounds, or smells.

• Excessive movement, such as spinning or bouncing.

• Difficulty with fine motor tasks, like handwriting or buttoning clothes.

• Poor balance or frequent stumbling.

How Thrive Health Therapies Supports Sensory Processing

At Thrive Health Therapies, we provide comprehensive assessments and tailored strategies to help individuals with sensory processing challenges. Our goal is to empower clients to better understand their sensory needs and thrive in their environments.

Sensory Profile Assessments

Every individual has a unique sensory profile that determines how they respond to sensory input. Our experienced occupational therapists use specialised tools to assess your sensory profile, identifying areas of sensitivity, under-responsiveness, and sensory preferences.

This detailed assessment includes:

• Observing sensory responses during activities.

• Gathering information about sensory challenges from the individual and their supports (e.g. parents, caregivers, or teachers).

• Analysing sensory patterns and triggers.

Creating a Sensory Diet/Personalised Strategies and Interventions

After completing the sensory profile assessment, our occupational therapists collaborate with you and your supports to develop tailored strategies, or a “sensory diet”. These may include:

1. Environmental Modifications:
   Adjusting the individual’s environment to reduce sensory triggers, such as dimming lights, minimising noise, or providing sensory-friendly materials.

2. Sensory Integration Therapy:
   Engaging in activities that help the brain process sensory input more effectively, such as swinging, jumping, or deep-pressure activities.

3. Skill-Building Exercises:
   Practising activities that develop tolerance to sensory input, improve body awareness, or enhance self-regulation skills.

4. Practical Strategies for Daily Life:

   • Using noise-cancelling headphones to reduce auditory overwhelm.

   • Introducing sensory breaks during school or work to manage sensory overload.

   • Providing weighted blankets or vests for calming proprioceptive input.