Does Sensory Integration Therapy Really Work?
Lisa Jo Rudy

The American Association of Pediatrics says "occupational therapy using sensory integration techniques to address sensory processing problems is commonly used in children with ASD. Although many believe occupational therapy is subjectively effective in educational and clinical settings, research data to support its effectiveness is scant."

The Aetna Insurance Corporation has developed a policy relative to sensory integration therapies of various sorts, and summarizes its policy as follows: "Aetna considers sensory and auditory integration therapies experimental and investigational for the management of persons with various communication, behavioral, emotional, and learning disorders and for all other indications. The effectiveness of these therapies is unproven." They back up their policy decision with dozens of specific studies by major researchers in the field.

Dr. Lucy Jane Miller, director of the Knowledge in Development Foundation, which specializes in sensory dysfunction and sensory dysfunction therapy, says: "Outcomes depend, but we do see major changes." Miller stresses the importance of including and training parents as part of the process of therapy, and makes it clear that her approach to sensory integration therapy focuses on concrete, short-term goals that are customized to each patient and his or her family.

As is suggested by the opinions described, research to date has not been conclusive. Studies suggest that, for example, that children are more likely to focus well after exercise than after sitting still - but this kind of finding seems to be a statement of the obvious. There are small studies which suggest that sensory integration is extremely helpful, and other equally small studies that suggest the opposite. So far, no one has truly shown that the specific therapeutic tools of sensory integration are more effective than, say, a brisk walk around the block, or a session with a jump rope. Nevertheless, anecdotal findings do seem to suggest that sensory integration therapy (also called sensory dysfunction therapy) can make a significant difference for some people.

It's important to note that, while sensory integration therapy is generally recommended for children, there's no special reason why teens or adults shouldn't benefit from focused therapeutic work. Says Dr. Miller: "It's never too late to get treatment: the brain is still plastic. And it's never too late to understand yourself."

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