What does SPDF mean in FOUNDATIONS

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a neurological disorder in which the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to sensory information from the body, such as sound, touch, smell, taste, movement and vision. People with SPD may experience hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to certain stimuli.

Symptoms of SPD include difficulty processing sensory information, difficulties regulating emotions and behaviors, an over- or undersensitivity to certain sounds, smells and sensations, delayed motor skills development, misinterpreting physical movement cues and poor coordination.

The exact cause of SPD is unknown but it is believed to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is also suggested that prenatal complications such as smoking and alcohol use during pregnancy can play a role in development of the disorder.

Yes. A diagnosis of SPD can be made by a developmental pediatrician or other qualified health professional after evaluation of symptoms displayed by the individual. A multidisciplinary team including teachers, occupational therapists and speech pathologists may also need to provide additional assessments in order to determine an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment for SPD typically involves interventions that help individuals learn how to better process sensory information as well as learning strategies for coping with any over- or undersensitivity they are experiencing. Occupational therapy focuses on visual motor integration skills while physical therapy involves strengthening weak core muscles and improving posture. Speech therapy helps improve communication skills while social skills training helps address anxiety associated with social situations which can arise due to lack of understanding regarding appropriate behavior in different environments. Additionally, parental training on behavioral management techniques may be beneficial.

The Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation offers support through its website where you can find helpful resources on diagnosis, treatment options and educational supports for managing your child's condition at home. Additionally local providers offer services specific to your area such as support groups for parents or workshops on specific topics related to SPD. Your pediatrician should also be able to provide additional resources that are tailored towards your family's needs based on their experience with similar cases.

Yes there is ongoing research focused on better understanding the cause of thiscondition as well as developing more effective intervention strategies for those affected by it. Examples include studies looking at differences in brain structure between people with SPD compared to those without it, researching various therapeutic approaches used in treatment of SPD and measuring changesin behavior after using these new interventions.

Raising awareness about this condition starts at home by educating yourselfabout what it means so that youcan accurately share this information with others who may not have heard of it before or have limited knowledge about the subject matter. Additionally joining online communities relatedtoSPD allows you toget connectedwithotherparentsand professionals who share similar experiencesandspreadknowledge about this condition together