The American Academy of Pediatrics has released a new policy statement saying that pediatricians should no longer diagnose children with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) “because there is no universally accepted framework for diagnosis."
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital’s Dr Michelle Zimmer co-wrote the AAP’s new guidelines on sensory integration therapy. She explains that SPD "might just be a symptom of another underlying developmental problem” such as Autism, ADHD, or some childhood anxiety disorders. So, while this form of occupational therapy can actually help children with sensory processing problems, pediatricians are now being cautioned against using SPD as a stand alone diagnosis.
Though the DSM5 public commenting period is ending next week, many expect SPD to be nixed as a stand alone diagnosis. This would prevent it from being covered by insurance, making therapies even more expensive for families.
Many parents don’t seem to care what you call it, as long as their children are able to receive proper treatments and therapies. The AAP says that research on results of sensory integration therapy is “limited and inconclusive.”
How has sensory integration therapy helped your child? Do you support the AAP’s stance on this? Would your family be affected by this change?