Sensory Integration Interventions used by Pediatric Occupational Therapists for Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

Objective: To identify sensory based interventions used by pediatric occupational therapists treating children diagnosed with ASD. Design: Systematic Review Methods: Researchers searched four scholarly databases to obtain articles identifying sensory integration interventions used by pediatric occupational therapists. The four key terms used to filter the resulting articles include: “occupational therapy,” “autism,” “sensory,” and “interventions.” Articles were eliminated based on inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results: A total of 11 articles were chosen to identify sensory integration interventions used by pediatric occupational therapists treating children diagnosed with ASD. Conclusions: The sensory based interventions most commonly used by pediatric occupational therapists treating children diagnosed with ASD include vestibular, tactile, and proprioceptive input. The primary focus of sensory based treatments is to promote acquisition of skills in attention, behavior, sensory processing, and play under natural conditions. Sensory integration interventions are often implemented as part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes educational, behavioral, and medical approaches. The research included in this systematic review is generally supportive of sensory-based treatment; however, the available evidence is inconsistent. More research is necessary to support the efficacy of this preferred approach to pediatric occupational therapy practice