Sensory Integration
Sensory Integration is the process of "perceiving, modulating, organizing, and interpreting these sensations to optimize occupational performance and participation" (AOTA, 2015). Sensory Integration Theory and intervention methods were developed by occupational therapist Dr. A. Jean Ayres in the 1970s. Sensory Integration Dysfunction, also called Sensory Processing Disorder, is a neurological condition that results when the brain is not able to process or respond to stimuli from the environment in a meaningful and functional way. Sensory Integration Dysfunction includes hypersensitivity and/or hyposensitivity to sensations. Key sensations that may be disrupted are the tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive senses.
Sensory Integration is the process of "perceiving, modulating, organizing, and interpreting these sensations to optimize occupational performance and participation" (AOTA, 2015). Sensory Integration Theory and intervention methods were developed by occupational therapist Dr. A. Jean Ayres in the 1970s. Sensory Integration Dysfunction, also called Sensory Processing Disorder, is a neurological condition that results when the brain is not able to process or respond to stimuli from the environment in a meaningful and functional way. Sensory Integration Dysfunction includes hypersensitivity and/or hyposensitivity to sensations. Key sensations that may be disrupted are the tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive senses.
- Tactile input is received through sensory receptors in the skin
- Vestibular input is received through receptors in the inner ear and provide information about where one's head is located in space, influencing balance and movement
- Proprioceptive input is received through muscles, joints, and tendons and provide information about where one's body is located in space
AOTA SI Fact Sheet.pdf