CP Sensory 

Cerebral Palsy (CP) is often associated with sensory issues because the brain damage causing CP can also affect how the brain processes sensory information, leading to difficulties with vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, and body awareness (proprioception). These sensory problems can manifest as either hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) or hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) to stimuli. Sensory processing deficits are common in CP, are linked to functional abilities in self-care and mobility, and can significantly impact a child's behavior, social participation, and motor development. 

Types of Sensory Issues in CP

• Hypersensitivity: An over-reaction to sensory input, which can include being sensitive to bright lights, loud noises, strong smells, or certain textures of food and touch. 

• Hyposensitivity: An under-reaction to sensory input, leading to a lack of awareness or a need for strong stimuli. 

• Specific Sensory Systems Affected:

  • Vision: Common, ranging from refractive errors (like farsightedness) and crossed eyes (strabismus) to more severe cortical visual impairment. 

  • Hearing: Auditory hypersensitivity can lead to a child covering their ears in response to noise. 

  • Touch: Can result in tactile hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity, impacting how a child interacts with objects and others. 

  • Taste and Smell: Sensitivity or lack thereof can affect eating and reactions to environmental smells. 

  • Proprioception: Difficulty sensing the position and movement of one's body in space, affecting balance and body awareness. 

Signs and Symptoms

Children with CP may exhibit: 

• Avoidant or hesitant behaviors.

• Tantrums or emotional outbursts.

• Difficulty with fine motor skills and coordination

• Restlessness, overactivity, or physical tensing.

• Lack of reaction to external events.

• Insecurity or anxiety during movement.

Impact on Function

Sensory issues in CP can affect a child's ability to:

• Engage in self-care: Such as feeding or dressing. 

• Move and navigate the environment: Issues with balance, depth perception, and body awareness can impact walking and stability. 

• Participate socially: Sensory processing difficulties can hinder social interactions and engagement. 

• Develop motor skills: Poor coordination and body awareness can make it harder to learn and perform physical tasks. 

Interventions

• Sensory Integration Therapy: A therapy that helps individuals process sensory information more effectively, potentially improving motor skills, social participation, and adaptive responses. 

• Caregiver strategies: Understanding a child's sensory needs helps caregivers provide appropriate support and create a sensory-friendly environment.