Spectrum Disorders vs. Sensory Processing Disorder

It is often difficult to distinguish between Spectrum Disorders and SPD. But they are indeed two different diagnoses, with a lot of overlap. This is often where the confusion comes in.

So... even though there is overlap (probably about 90% of Spectrum Disorders having SPD) an individual can definitely have one and not the other, or both.

That being said, an OT has to be able to distinguish between the two. A neurologist, or neuropsychologist should be able to give a proper diagnosis,which is the key to proper treatment.

In an ideal world, these kids would have a thorough workup for both Spectrum disorders and SPD (using the SIPT and Sensory Processing Measure, among
other diagnostic tests). Once an evaluation is done, proper treatment and therapy can follow.

As far as treatment goes, it is difficult. The diagnosis will depend on how the kids will respond to SI therapy in particular. One of the most distinguishing
issues between Autism and SPD for example, is that you will see a decrease in the behaviors (ie, sensory seeking, picky eating, etc.) when Sensory Integrative approaches are used.

For example, say you want a child to do a task and they are hyperfocused on some "ritualistic/ compulsive" behavior... spectrum disordered kids will have a much
more difficult time being redirected. With SPD, if you give them the right type of input they are seeking, it will be easier to engage them and maintain their attention, focus, and arousal.

The "behaviors" are the clues as to what type of input a child is seeking, especially if you approach it from an SPD stand point. Their behaviors will be exactly what they are telling you they need or avoid. Then it takes some clever detective work to figure out how to safely and appropriately give them what they are needing or gradually introduce them to the input they are avoiding.

Two very important SI Therapy approaches that should be used in every session are proprioceptive and vestibular stimulation. But, again, you must be careful to pick the right activities, with just the right challenge to their neurological system... then couple this with the other issues they are working on. Their bodies must first be prepared for the tasks they are to work on. Their neurological systems must be more and more organized as therapy progresses. If SPD is the issue, behaviors will improve.

The absolute best resource to sort all of this out and find treatment strategies is an amazing book called "The Mislabeled Child " by Drs. Fernette and Brock Eide.

The similarities and differences between Spectrum disorders and SPD are so complicated and require more research!! This is being done, but not fast enough! So, for now we do the best we can with our clinical reasoning skills and
amend treatment plans and ideas as we notice more or different things to work on.

Essential Guide To Autism - If you're really worried a loved one with Autism might never truly enjoy life to the full.

Sensory Processing Disorders - How does it REALLY feel to have SPD? Come take a realistic look at how a world is perceived by an SPD child or adult.

Do You Have Any Comments or Insights about Spectrum Disorders vs. SPD?

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