Common Symptoms Of Sensory Processing Disorder

Poor Coordination And Balance

The proprioception and vestibular systems affect body movement and balance. Problems with these lesser-known senses can manifest as poor coordination and balance in a person with sensory processing disorder. The proprioception system involves messages to the muscles and how much pressure or force to use, while the vestibular system controls how movement is experienced.

Poor coordination and balance result when these systems are out of sync. A patient with SPD may appear clumsy or uncoordinated because they cannot accurately sense how much pressure to use when walking, running or climbing. They may often trip or move with a noticeably heavier gait. Someone with poor proprioception may appear overly rough or aggressive because they are unaware of how much force they are actually using.

Individuals with sensory processing disorder often struggle with sports due to insufficient coordination and balance. Throwing, kicking, or hitting a ball require the proprioceptive and vestibular system to be in sync. Certain movements do not come easily to these patients.

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