Is Sensory Integration Therapy an Evidence-Based Treatment for Autism?

Written by Emily Braff, B.A., BCaBA

                Sensory integration therapy (SIT) is a commonly used treatment for individuals with autism. SIT encompasses many different techniques and not all of them have been the subject of research. This blog will discuss which techniques have been evaluated and the findings of these investigations. This is not intended to indicate whether or not the treatment is effective for treating autism but will instead give you an idea of whether the research thus far supports its use and how much research in fact exists.

What is SIT?

                The theory behind SIT is that malfunctions in the way the brain processes sensory stimulation (regarding touch, sound, sight, and movement) can result in certain behavioral or emotional issues. SIT is generally performed by an occupational or physical therapist and involves exposing the individual to a number of sensory stimuli and body movements intended to teach sensory processing abilities. These stimuli popularly include weighted vests, brushing on the skin, prism glasses, and swings, among many others. Reportedly, SIT may reduce stereotypic (repetitive self-stimulatory) behaviors such as hand flapping and rocking and negative reactions to certain sensory stimuli such as lights, sounds, or certain textures. It has also been said to increase balance, eye contact and language, in some cases.

Research on SIT and Autism

                At this point, there is not enough high-quality research on SIT for it to be considered an evidence-based therapy. The insurance company Aetna lists many studies which have been conducted on SIT and their results on their website to demonstrate why they cannot justify providing coverage for this treatment: http://www.aetna.com/cpb/medical/data/200_299/0256.html This is a good place to find studies on SIT as many of the resources listed are reviews of the literature. Reading some of the more recent reviews will give you an overview of the research that has been conducted to date and the findings. Additionally, looking at two or three will provide a relatively balanced perspective as authors’ personal opinions on the treatment may sometimes color their interpretations.

                At this point, not much high-quality research has been conducted on SIT. Many of the reviews of the literature so far indicate that more research is needed as many of the studies were poorly designed or had questionable results which have not been replicated. Some occupational therapists responded to a review of the literature recently and pointed out that many of the studies which are used to evaluate SIT are not in fact accurate representations of the therapy. Often, studies which claim to evaluate the effectiveness of SIT involve only one or two components (e.g. a weighted vest or brushing) while SIT guidelines state clearly that SIT should involve upwards of 20 components based on the child’s individual needs. Additionally, SIT should be conducted by a licensed occupational therapist and many studies are conducted by researchers who are not certified professionals. This response is a good resource as it lays out the guidelines for how SIT should be conducted: http://www.aota.org/News/Consumer/Response.aspx?FT=.pdf

                If you are considering SIT for your child, the resources presented above are a good starting point for making sure you have enough information to make an educated decision. Make sure if you decide to use SIT that it is provided by a licensed occupational therapist who follows the best-practice guidelines to ensure that you are getting the best treatment possible. Being aware of these factors should help ensure that you do not waste valuable time and money on a treatment which may not be the best fit for your child.

                Please state your experiences with SIT below in the comment section.  Your feedback is appreciated!